The stigma associated with Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is impacting the lives of HIV positive individuals and their loved ones. Common myths and misconceptions have caused confusion increasing the stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS HIV is a virus that attacks cells in the immune system by destroying white blood cells, whereas AIDS is a symptom caused by HIV. Thus, AIDS is when an individual's immune system is too weak to fight off the infection (What Are HIV and AIDS? 2017). Individuals that are HIV positive do not have AIDS. This stigma has resulted in people living with HIV to endure ridicule, rejection, gossip, exclusion, abuse and physical violence. These barriers prevent those with AIDS from receiving proper care and those without AIDS to not understand the risks of contraction.