Primary Infection

Physical symptoms

Many people have no obvious symptoms immediately following HIV infection. However, within 3 to 6 weeks after infection, approximately 50 to 70% of persons develop acute HIV syndrome. The symptoms of HIV syndrome last for about a week, and include fever, sore throat, tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Individuals who experience these symptoms may be unaware that they have HIV, because these same symptoms are commonly associated with influenza (the “flu”).

The inside story

During the primary infection stage, the viral load peaks as the virus (HIV) spreads throughout the body, especially to lymphoid tissue. Then, the viral load begins to drop as the immune system responds to the infection. The CD4-cell count falls sharply during the primary infection, because HIV indirectly destroys the cell population through the process of viral replication.

General symptoms of acute HIV syndrome

• Fever
• Throat infection
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Headache
• Joint or muscle pain
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Anorexia or weight loss
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Disorders of the skin, including rash and ulceration, and nervous system, such as meningitis and encephalitis