Human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, is a virus that kills or damages the cells of the immune system. The virus spreads through sexual transmission or contact with infected blood, either through shared needles, mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth or breast-feeding. HIV can quickly progress if patients do not take the proper antivirals to slow its advancement. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome is the most advanced stage of the disease. The presence of HIV is usually indicated by flu-like symptoms. Persons who suspect HIV or AIDS should immediately contact a health care professional for testing and treatment.
Fever
Upon the initial contraction of HIV, infected persons may not exhibit any signs of symptoms, despite being able to transmit the disease. Many people will develop a flu-like illness within the first two to four weeks of acquiring the virus, MayoClinic.com says. People will usually have a fever, which is the body's natural response to warding off an infection. At this stage, the body's immune system and specialized cells called T-cells are combating the virus. HIV hijacks these cells and causes them to replicate more of the virus, although this replication may not occur for years.
Headache
Accompanying a fever is a headache that is the usual course for the flu. A headache may develop due to the release of cytokines, which are a part of the body's immune response to viral infections, according to a 1992 National Institutes of Health study. Additional congestion and inflammation of the nasal blood vessels also contribute to the headache within the first few weeks of contracting HIV. A headache is a common condition and may not always indicate HIV.
Swollen Lymph Nodes
After remaining symptom-free for many years, infected people may suddenly develop mild or chronic flu-like symptoms. Swollen lymph nodes, in particular, are often the first sign of an HIV infection. The lymph nodes are an essential part of the immune system, as they help to fight germs, infections and other foreign substances. The enlargement of any of the nodes located throughout the body--in the groin, armpits, neck and under the jaw and chin--is indicative of the immune system fighting an infection. Swelling is also common in other viral infections such as a cold and flu.
