What initial symptoms does HIV cause?

• A. Flu-like symptoms
• B. Chronic cough
• C. Rash on the skin
• D. Severe joint pain

Answer: (A)

Initial HIV infection often shows an acute retroviral syndrome, a temporary flu-like illness that arises as the body fights the rapidly multiplying virus. This usually appears 2–4 weeks after exposure and includes fever, fatigue, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, headaches, and muscle or joint pains, with some people also developing a rash. Because these symptoms mirror the flu or other common infections, HIV can be easy to miss at first, making testing important after potential exposure. The other symptoms listed aren’t the hallmark of early HIV: a chronic cough points to a respiratory issue, a standalone skin rash isn’t as consistently seen in early infection, and severe joint pain by itself isn’t typical of the initial phase.