Acute retroviral syndrome (ARS) is the first stage of infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Symptoms of acute retroviral syndrome are similar to the flu (such as headache, nausea, diarrhea, and body aches) and disappear on their own within weeks.

Even though symptoms of acute retroviral syndrome may disappear, a person is still infected with HIV. Although there currently is no cure for HIV infection, a combination of medications called highly active antiretroviral therapy, or HAART, helps prolong life in many people.