This work is focused on the disease called AIDS which is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and which is a public health problem, both in Croatia and the rest of the world. We will explain the causes of its occurrence and its effects, as well as the epidemiology of the spreading of the disease in Croatia and the rest of the world. Furthermore, we will mention numerous risk behaviour factors which contribute to its occurrence and the services which try to prevent the disease. Some of the methods and programs aimed at preventing the disease through counselling in the Republic of Croatia will also be described. In addition, the role of nurses in regard with care and the implementation of health education will also be mentioned because health education plays an extremely important role in preventing AIDS in individuals as well as in the community.Our goal was to draw attention to the causes of the occurrence, the effects of the possible spreading of the disease as well as to mention the preventive measures, one of the most important activities in combating the disease. Also, we wanted to highlight that AIDS, along with health issues, brings many social, ethical and economic problems.