HIV Human immunodeficiency virus, is a virus that attacks the body's immune system. If left untreated, it can cause AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), a weakened state where lethal diseases and cancers can be acquired. By knowing the basics about HIV, you can stay healthy and prevent HIV transmission. There are two types of HIV, HIV-1 which is the common virus that is spread around the world, and HIV-2 which is a virus that is present in a part of Africa. Virus is transmitted from one person to another through certain body fluids: BloodSemen and preseminal fluid Rectal fluids Vaginal fluidsBreastle milk. HIV has no cure.