Pandemic
HIV/AIDS
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
42.0M
estimated deaths
Period
1981–Ongoing
Origin
Democratic Republic of Congo
Death range
40.0M–45.0M
Infected
85.0M
Overview
HIV/AIDS emerged in the early 1980s and became one of the most destructive pandemics in history. The virus attacks the immune system, leaving the body vulnerable to opportunistic infections. Sub-Saharan Africa has been hardest hit, with some countries seeing 25–30% adult infection rates. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has transformed HIV from a death sentence to a manageable chronic condition, but the pandemic continues with ~38 million people currently living with the virus.
Historical Timeline
1981First cases identified (USA)
1995Peak deaths before ARVs
2020Ongoing — ~38M living with HIV
Symptoms
Rapid weight loss
Recurring fever
Night sweats
Swollen lymph nodes
Opportunistic infections (TB, pneumonia)
Affected Regions
Southern Africa (epicentre)
Sub-Saharan Africa
USA
Brazil
India
China
Sources & References
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