2. Chronic (Asymptomatic) HIV Infection
After the acute phase, HIV enters a more quiet stage. The virus is still active but reproduces at lower levels. Without treatment, this stage can last about 8–10 years on average.
During chronic HIV:
– Many people have no obvious symptoms.
– The immune system is slowly being damaged over time.
– A person can still transmit HIV to others.
With effective antiretroviral therapy (ART), people can stay in this stage for decades, maintain a healthy immune system, and keep their viral load undetectable — meaning the virus can’t be passed on through sex.
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