Information about HIV & AIDS

While there is no cure for HIV, there are very effective treatments. After a risk situation, an HIV test provides clarity and safety. There are various test options available in Switzerland. If an HIV infection remains undetected and untreated for an extended period of time, it develops into AIDS.

HIV testing
After a risk situation or at the start of a new relationship, having an HIV test is a good option as it provides clarity and safety. The regional AIDS Advisory Service, GPs, hospitals or Checkpoints in your area offer tests.
- more: HIV testing
What is AIDS?
HIV is an incurable infection, but it does respond well to treatment so that it does not develop into AIDS. If you have been unsafe, it is important to recognise any symptoms and to get advice. Starting therapy in good time strengthens your immune system and improves your health.
- more: What is AIDS?
Symptoms | Primary Infection
Most people experience flu-like symptoms following infection with HIV. This initial phase is known as “primary infection”. There are several reasons why this must be taken seriously: on the one hand, newly infected people are much more contagious during this initial stage, and on the other hand, administering treatment right away may, in some cases, help to reduce the damage HIV causes and can also help the immune system to control the infection better over the long term.
- more: Symptoms | Primary Infection
Therapy
Medicine cannot cure HIV. However, there are drugs with which the HIV infection can be effectively treated and controlled. If the drugs are taken consistently, the therapy markedly increases the quality of life and the life expectancy of people living with HIV.
- more: Therapy
Statistics
The epidemiology of HIV/AIDS in Switzerland and globally
- more: Statistics