Are there people who can not contract HIV AIDS?

The short answer is yes, there are rare cases of people who are naturally resistant to HIV, but they're the exception, not the rule.

Here's how that works:

1. CCR5-Δ32 Mutation

Some people (especially of European descent) carry a genetic mutation called CCR5-Δ32. This mutation affects the CCR5 receptor on white blood cells, which is one of the main gateways HIV uses to enter cells. People who inherit two copies of this mutation (one from each parent) have cells that lack functional CCR5 receptors, making it extremely hard for HIV to infect them. These people are often called "HIV-resistant".

About 1% of people of European descent have two copies of the mutation (homozygous). Around 10–15% have one copy (heterozygous), which provides partial protection—they can still get HIV, but the progression is slower. The famous case of the “Berlin Patient” (Timothy Ray Brown) was cured of HIV after a bone marrow transplant from a donor who had two CCR5-Δ32 mutations.

2. Elite Controllers

There's another rare group known as elite controllers. These individuals do get infected with HIV, but their immune systems are able to control the virus without medication for many years.

• They still technically have HIV, but the virus doesn't replicate to harmful levels.

• Scientists are still studying how their immune systems manage this feat.

3. Post-treatment Controllers

Some people treated very early after infection and then stop therapy can maintain undetectable viral loads. They're not cured, but their body keeps the virus in check.

💡 Important Note: These cases are extremely rare. The vast majority of people are susceptible to HIV, and safe practices (like using protection, regular testing, and treatment) remain the best defense.