HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. Once infected with HIV, that infection remains for the rest of the person’s life.
HIV prevents the immune system from working properly by infecting cells that co-ordinate the body’s fight against infection. It is generally accepted that infection with HIV is the necessary pre-condition for the development of AIDS.
AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. AIDS is the result of damage to the immune system. A damaged immune system is unable to protect the body against infections.
Unlike most other conditions, people with AIDS may experience different clinical problems, depending on which infections that they develop.
This is what the syndrome means: a collection of different signs and symptoms that are all part of the same underlying medical condition.
Leicester City Council has specialist social workers that can provide information, offer advice and arrange support for people living with HIV/AIDS and their carers.
The information regarding HIV status will be treated as confidential.
Information and advice can be given to help you with:
How to contact us
You can contact a social worker as follows:
- Adults: Glenfield Hospital, Intermediate Care Social Work Tel: 2953272 or 2953352
- Children: Leicester Royal Infirmary, Children and Maternity Social Work - 0116 258 5182.
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