What is a common initial symptom of HIV infection?

A common initial symptom of HIV infection is fever. When a person is first infected with the HIV virus, they may experience a flu-like illness, which often includes a fever as one of the key symptoms. This fever is typically a result of the body's immune response to the virus and can occur within two to four weeks after exposure.

During this initial stage, known as acute retroviral syndrome, other symptoms might also present themselves alongside fever, such as swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, fatigue, and headaches. Recognizing fever as one of the first symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment, which can significantly improve health outcomes and reduce the risk of transmission.

While a rash, diarrhea, and muscle aches and pains can also occur during the course of HIV infection, they are not as closely associated with the initial phase as fever is. Fever tends to be the most noticeable symptom that prompts individuals to seek medical attention early in the course of infection.