When Did Magic Johnson Contract Hiv/Aids?

Magic Johnson, an NBA legend, announced his HIV diagnosis in November 1991 after a routine physical exam. He retired from the NBA immediately and later returned as a coach and player. In an appearance on CBS Mornings, Johnson discussed living with HIV three decades after he was initially diagnosed with the virus prior to the 1991-92 season. Johnson wrote in his autobiography that “my pleasure was being with women”, and described the road culture that led to the encounter during which he was diagnosed.

Despite the shock of the announcement, Johnson has been living with HIV for nearly zero years, and thanks to advances in medical science, the disease is now more manageable than it was when he first revealed his diagnosis. Johnson used the 1992 Olympic Games to shatter stigma around HIV, and his T-cell count was off the charts every time he went to the doctor.

Despite the significant impact of his diagnosis, the virus still disproportionately burdens minority populations. The average period between infection with the human immunodeficiency virus and diagnosis of AIDS is now ten years, according to experts. Johnson’s story has transformed HIV awareness and changed the world about the disease. His relationship with Anthony Fauci has also been a topic of discussion.