HIV is a life-threatening virus that damages the body’s immune system and leaves a person vulnerable to opportunistic infections. Without treatment, it can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome).

Because there is no cure, reducing the transmission of HIV while minimizing its effect on those living with it is critical.

In 2022, Florida identified 4,606 new HIV diagnoses. View Florida’s surveillance data for more information about HIV in our state.

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system.

Finding out your HIV status is the most important step in keeping you, and those you care about, safe.

Transmission

Most people who get through sex, or sharing needles or other drug injection equipment. Bodily fluids must come in contact with a mucous membrane or damaged tissue or be directly injected into the bloodstream (from a needle or syringe) for transmission to occur.

Factors like a person’s viral load, other sexually transmitted infections, and alcohol or drug use can increase the chances of getting or transmitting HIV.

Symptoms

Most people have flu-like symptoms within 2-4 weeks after infection. Symptoms may last for a few days or several weeks. Some people have no symptoms at all.

The only way to know if you have HIV is to get tested.

Testing
Prevention

Knowing your HIV status is the most important step in keeping you, and those you care about, safe. If you have HIV, using treatment as prevention can help you live a long, healthy life while protecting those around you.


Prevention Medications

Learn more about PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) and PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis).

Resources for Assistance
Data and Surveillance

Learn more about the Florida Department of Health’s HIV/AIDS surveillance and reporting.

Information for Health Care Providers

General Information


Long-Acting Injectable Resources


Treatment Guidance


Medication Formularies


HIV Phone Consultation

  • Perinatal HIV/AIDS: 888-448-8765
  • Post-Exposure Prophylaxis: 888-448-4911
  • General Clinical Questions: 800-933-3413
  • Prenatal HIV: 800-451-BABY (2229)
  • Additional Treatment Guidance: HIV Care Consultation at No Cost

Expanded Testing Initiative

The initiative is a collaborative project between the University of Miami and the Florida Department of Health. This project focuses on increasing HIV testing throughout the state through provider education. UM has developed printable materials for the initiative: