What is one characteristic of HIV?

HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is characterized as being treatable but not curable. This means that while antiretroviral therapy (ART) can effectively manage the virus, leading to a significant reduction in viral load and allowing individuals to live long and healthy lives, it does not eliminate the virus from the body. Individuals with HIV need to remain on treatment for life to maintain their health and prevent the progression to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).

The other options do not accurately reflect the nature of HIV. For example, the notion that it is curable with antibiotics is incorrect, as antibiotics are effective against bacterial infections, not viral infections like HIV. Similarly, claiming that there are no long-term health issues associated with HIV overlooks the fact that without treatment, HIV can lead to severe immune system damage and various health complications over time. Lastly, transmission only through saliva misrepresents how the virus spreads; HIV is predominantly transmitted through blood, sexual fluids, and breast milk, not saliva. Therefore, the assertion that HIV is treatable but not curable captures the essence of the condition and its management accurately.