HIV/AIDS Glossary

A group (sometimes called a "swarm") of mutant viruses that develops as a virus replicates within a host. The viruses grouped in a quasispecies are related by a similar mutation(s). During HIV infection, HIV can mutate into multiple quasispecies, which may reduce the immune system’s ability to control HIV infection. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) started in the early stages of HIV infection can control HIV replication and the development of quasispecies.