This book explores the strategies, plans and programs for responding to the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the United States. When one of our fellow citizens becomes infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) every 9-1/2 minutes, the epidemic affects all Americans. Without treatment, the virus slowly debilitates a person's immune system until they succumb to illness. The epidemic has claimed the lives of nearly 600,000 Americans and affects many more. We have the knowledge and tools needed to slow the spread of HIV infection and improve the health of people living with HIV. Despite this potential, however, the public's sense of urgency associated with combating the epidemic appears to be declining. Unless we take bold actions, we face a new era of rising infections, greater challenges in serving people living with HIV, and higher health care costs. (Imprint: Nova)