HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells), which are crucial for fighting off infections. If left untreated, HIV can lead to the disease AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).
HIV:
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Transmission: HIV is transmitted through specific bodily fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk. Common modes of transmission include unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding.
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Symptoms: After initial infection, some people experience flu-like symptoms (acute HIV infection) within 2 to 4 weeks, but many may show no symptoms for years. If untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS.
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Diagnosis: HIV is diagnosed through blood tests that detect the virus or the antibodies produced in response to it.
AIDS:
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Definition: AIDS is the advanced stage of HIV infection, characterized by a severely weakened immune system. A person is diagnosed with AIDS when their CD4 cell count falls below a certain threshold (200 cells/mm³) or when they develop opportunistic infections or certain cancers associated with HIV.
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Symptoms: Symptoms of AIDS can include rapid weight loss, recurring fever, extreme fatigue, prolonged swelling of the lymph nodes, and opportunistic infections.
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Management: While there is no cure for HIV, it can be effectively managed with antiretroviral therapy (ART). ART helps lower the viral load to undetectable levels, allowing individuals to lead healthy lives and significantly reducing the risk of transmitting the virus to others.
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Prevention: Prevention methods include practicing safer sex (using condoms), regular testing, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for high-risk populations, and needle exchange programs.
It’s important to note that with proper medical care, many people with HIV can live long, healthy lives without ever developing AIDS. Public awareness, education, and access to treatment are crucial in the fight against HIV/AIDS.