Table of Contents
Introduction to HIV;
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells). HIV destroys these cells and makes the body less able to fight infection and disease. As the virus continues to damage the immune system, it can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). AIDS is a serious, life-threatening illness caused by HIV. With early diagnosis and treatment, however, many people living with HIV now enjoy long, healthy lives.
Ways Through Which HIV Infection Spreads
The virus that causes HIV infection, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), is spread through contact with infected body fluids. These fluids include blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk.
HIV can be spread through sexual contact with an infected partner, from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breast-feeding, and by sharing needles or other injection equipment with someone who is infected.
HIV is not spread through casual contact, such as shaking hands, hugging, or sharing food or drinks.
Types of HIV
There are three main types of HIV: HIV-1, HIV-2, and HIV-3. HIV-1 is the most common type and is the virus that was first discovered. HIV-2 is mainly found in Africa, and HIV-3 has only been found in a small number of people.
How HIV Infection Occurs?
HIV is a virus that attacks an individual’s immune system, which can eventually lead to AIDS. HIV is spread through contact with bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, and vaginal secretions. The virus can be spread through unprotected sex, sharing needles, or from mother to child during birth or breastfeeding. There is no cure for HIV or AIDS, but there are treatments available that can prolong a person’s life.
What is AIDS?
AIDS is a virus that attacks the human immune system. It is most commonly spread through unprotected sexual contact, but can also be spread through contaminated needles or blood transfusions. AIDS symptoms can take years to develop, and many people infected with the virus do not know they have it. AIDS can lead to a number of serious illnesses, and is ultimately fatal.
Symptoms of AIDS
The first symptoms of AIDS may include fever, swollen lymph glands, rash, night sweats, and diarrhea. AIDS-related illnesses may include pneumonia, tuberculosis, cancer, and brain infections.
Prevention of AIDS
There is no one single method that can prevent AIDS. However, using a combination of methods can greatly reduce the risk of becoming infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.
Some methods that can help prevent AIDS include:
– Abstinence from sexual intercourse
– Correct and consistent use of condoms
– Reduction of the number of sexual partners
– Avoiding contact with blood or body fluids from someone who is HIV-positive
– Avoiding sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia
– Getting tested for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections on a regular basis
AIDS Awareness month
In observance of National HIV/AIDS Awareness Month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is highlighting the importance of HIV testing and prevention.
CDC recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. People at increased risk for HIV, such as those who have unprotected sex or share injection drug equipment, should be tested more frequently.
There are many ways to get tested for HIV. Your doctor can order a blood test, or you can get a free or low-cost test at a local health department or community health center.
If you are HIV-positive, there are treatments available that can help you live a long, healthy life. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for keeping HIV under control.
For more information on HIV testing and prevention, please visit the CDC website.
