AIDS in Africa Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is one of the most deadly viruses in the world. No country in Africa has escaped the virus. Some have been effected more then others though. The spread of AIDS in Africa is because of poor medical treatment and a lack of education on the part of the people. HIV is the virus which causes AIDS.(Aids in Africa,1994) HIV stands for Human Immune-deficiency Virus. The virus attacks the bodies immune system and weakens it. Scientists have wondered about the origin of HIV ever since the epidemic emerged. Experts believe that the virus was contracted through Chimpanzees. (AIDS