Why is there stigma related to HIV and AIDS?

HIV/AIDS-related stigma is not a straightforward phenomenon as attitudes towards the epidemic and those affected vary massively. Even within one country reactions to HIV/AIDS will vary between individuals and groups of people. Religion, gender, sexuality, age and levels of AIDS education can all affect how somebody feels about the disease. AIDS-related stigma is not static. It changes over time as infection levels, knowledge of the disease and treatment availability vary.