Definition

The immune system protects the body from infections and diseases. Infection by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) gradually weakens an individual’s immune system. The symptoms may not appear for several years, but over this time the immune system’s ability to fight infections and diseases is impaired. People with HIV may contract diseases that threaten their health, and even their life. At this stage, the condition is called acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). AIDS is the long-term consequence of the devastating effect of HIV on the immune system.

Opportunistic infections and diseases that occur in a person who has AIDS include pneumonia, meningitis, candidiasis and certain types of cancer.

There are an estimated 60,000 HIV-positive people (HIV carriers) in Canada, of whom 15,000 are unaware of their condition. Roughly 4,200 new cases of infection are reported each year.

Source: Québec Health Guide

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Are you a health professional?

If you are interested in learning more, please visit the HIV/AIDS page on the website of Montréal's Director of Public Health.

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Practical advice

What can you do to prevent problems or protect yourself?

More information on the screening test is available on the STI page.


Please note! If you are injecting drugs, material is available to help you prevent HIV/AIDS and the other STIs.

Also see: Tips for Smart Love

Whom should you contact to get help?

There is a list of resources in the Montréal region on the STI page.

Where can you find additional, credible information? 

Ministère de la santé et des services sociaux (MSSS) – World AIDS Day
World Aids Campaign

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