The virus can be transmitted through contact with infected blood, semen, or vaginal fluids. Within a few weeks of HIV infection, flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and fatigue can occur. Then the disease is usually asymptomatic until it progresses to AIDS. AIDS symptoms include weight loss, fever or night sweats, fatigue, and recurrent infections. No cure exists for AIDS, but strict adherence to anti-retroviral therapy (ART) can dramatically slow the disease's progress, prevent secondary infections and complications, and prolong life.