16/12/2025
There are two different types of HIV viruses. These are called HIV-1 and HIV-2. Although their names sound similar, they are actually two completely different viruses.
Genetically, HIV-2 is more than 55 percent different from HIV-1.
Overall, HIV-1 is the most common type of HIV worldwide. It’s estimated that 95 percent of people living with HIV have HIV-1.
HIV-2 is found mainly in West Africa, in countries like Nigeria and Ghana, though here in our region there are also some people with HIV-2.
HIV-1 is more severe and more easily transmitted, while HIV-2 progresses more slowly. Both types, HIV-1 and HIV-2, can cause AIDS.
Some people have both types, so the test will show three lines instead of two.