<span>The first stage of HIV infection is known as the acute stage. The body responds by producing HIV antibodies and killer T- cells which are special lymphocytes that seek out and destroy invading pathogens such as viruses and bacteria. Two to four weeks after infection, the immune system launches an attack against HIV using these antibodies and killer T-cells, significantly reducing HIV level on blood. A percentage of the viruses however escapes this onslaught by hiding in other cells and continue to multiply.</span>