HIV infection prevention: Epidemiological characteristics, routes of transmission, clinical stages, and principles of treatment

This scientific narrative review examines the global epidemiology and etiopathogenesis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, its sexual, parenteral, and vertical transmission pathways, clinical manifestations, and the four clinical stages defined by the World Health Organization (WHO). Current recommendations concerning laboratory diagnosis, assessment of antiretroviral therapy (ART) effectiveness, pre-exposure and post-exposure prophylaxis, prevention of mother-to-child transmission, and infection prevention and control in healthcare settings are synthesized. According to WHO estimates for the end of 2025, approximately 41.0 million people worldwide were living with HIV, underscoring the need for continuous, integrated prevention and treatment services. The review identifies early diagnosis, uninterrupted ART, risk-adapted prevention, and stigma-free healthcare communication as mutually reinforcing priorities..