acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) | Definition

Doc's CJ Glossary by Adam J. McKee

HIV infection is a condition that can gradually destroy the immune system, which makes it harder for the body to fight infections. When this happens, the person has AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome).


Many jurisdictions criminalize exposing another person to AIDS without the person’s knowledge.


HIV infection is a medical condition that can have serious implications for individuals who are infected and for society as a whole. HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is a virus that attacks the immune system and can eventually progress to AIDS, or acquired immune deficiency syndrome.

AIDS is a condition that can gradually destroy the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infections. This can lead to a range of health problems, including opportunistic infections and cancers. While there is no cure for HIV or AIDS, there are medications and treatments available that can help to manage the symptoms and prolong life.

In many jurisdictions, exposing another person to HIV without their knowledge or consent is considered a criminal offense. These laws are typically intended to protect individuals from the risk of HIV transmission and to hold individuals accountable for their actions in exposing others to the virus.

Criminal laws related to HIV exposure can take a number of forms. Some jurisdictions have laws that specifically criminalize intentional transmission of HIV, meaning that a person who knowingly exposes another person to the virus can be charged with a crime. Other jurisdictions may have broader laws that criminalize any conduct that exposes another person to the risk of HIV transmission, regardless of intent.

Critics of criminal laws related to HIV exposure argue that they can be overly punitive and can discourage individuals from seeking testing and treatment for HIV. Additionally, there are concerns that these laws can disproportionately affect marginalized or vulnerable populations, such as sex workers or people who use drugs.

Supporters of these laws argue that they are necessary to protect public health and to hold individuals accountable for their actions in exposing others to the virus. Additionally, some argue that criminal laws related to HIV exposure can serve as a deterrent to behavior that puts others at risk.


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Learn more on MedlinePlus


[ Glossary ]

Last Modified: 04/29/2023

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