1
HIV originated from a type of chimpanzee in Central Africa, with evidence suggesting transmission to humans as early as the late 1800s.
2
The virus likely crossed species barriers when humans came into contact with infected chimpanzee blood during activities like hunting and butchering.
3
HIV slowly spread across Africa over decades before becoming a global epidemic, affecting millions of people worldwide.
4
Despite the absence of a cure, advancements in HIV treatment and care have significantly improved the quality of life for those living with the virus.