I think it depends on the situation. Does having HIV stop you from being able to work? Everyone’s situation is different. I am lucky enough that I am able to work a hard mental and physical job with long hours. I am grateful because I love what I do. So I do not consider HIV as a disability, but more of something that drives me to prove that I can work just as hard as anyone else. Some people are not so lucky.

I would second that it depends from one person to another. In my case, lots of damage to my nerves system was caused by optimistic illness but not Hiv singly .. when my nerves are playing up it is such exculating pain I cannot function. I tried volunteering but within minutes I was sent off. I only remember I have hiv when swallowing medication in the evening and when my learned GP decides to make a fuss about my hiv status iinstead of focusing on the purpose of my visit. My hiv condition has been well managed and controlled for over 20 years. However if your medication fails and you are poorly it can be incapacitating..There are many who are hiv positive and living full and active lives without taking any antiviral drugs.

I add mine because my HIV status is Googalable and I’m ‘out’. I used to think it stopped me from being hired 🤷🏻‍♀️

HIV is now highly manageable and is no longer considered a disability dependent on the persons current levels. It becomes a disability if you allow it to be and your treating HIV doctor states that medically/physically, you can no longer work.
In my opinion, If I still feel like I can hold gainful employment, I will most definitely.
I do not want to live under any government handout, although earned when your taxes pay into social security. Some people need this safety net, and some don't.
If your doctor says you are incapable of working anymore because of HIV/AIDS, you are considered disabled and also become protected under the ADA.

Which is why HIV disability is on a sliding scale. Some people have no lasting scar and go on to live productive lives. Others are not so fortunate. And once the damage is done sometimes the meds don't reverse it. For all of the advances we make in treating HIV. People are still still being diagnosed with a automatic AIDS diagnosis.