Physicians treating patients in the primary care setting (office, hospital, or emergency department) are key players in quickly identifying those at risk for developing illness from immunocompromise. Even though the current prognosis for HIV infection is poor, the earlier such patients can be identified, the better quality of life we can provide. Emergency physicians are at especially high risk for exposure to the virus during rapid response necessary for life-saving activities. Physicians are cautioned to observe the appropriate precautions (universal) to prevent their becoming victims of HIV illness.