HIV is a causative agent of an infectious, sexually transmitted and incurable disease. In advanced HIV phase acquired immune deficiency syndrome (or AIDS) develop, which can take several years. From its initial discovery in 1981, HIV represents a significant public health issue. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), since the start of epidemic, 25 million people have died around the world due to the consequences of AIDS. In Croatia, HIV/AIDS registry is keeping track on the incidence of HIV infections, AIDS and mortality. This thesis aimed to present HIV infection through the history of prejudice and labelling this infection as something that is still not socially accepted, albeit almost five decades have passed since the first diagnosis was established. Moreover, the goal of the research part of this thesis was to examine the general knowledge of high school population and to perceive whether they really have prejudice. Students from the high school in Koprivnica participated in the research part of the thesis. The study involved a total of 128 participants aged between 15 and 20 years. The survey showed that, despite the media and widely available online social networks, where students could get information and form their opinions, basically 2.3% of them still do not know what HIV really is, 9% of them do not know the difference between AIDS and HIV, as well as how the agent is transmitted. With this available information we should ask ourselves whether it is indeed the time to introduce health education in high schools and provide it continuously. It can be concluded that only systematic approach to education, not only in high schools, will make substantial difference. The data from this study could and should be used as encouragement for schools to introduce health education for young people before it is too late.