Hiv 1

HIV/AIDS
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune

system of the body by targeting CD4 cells, which are a type of white
blood cell that is essential in fighting infections.
AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the most advanced

stage of HIV infection. When HIV is left untreated, it progressively
weakens the immune system, making the body vulnerable to
opportunistic infections, which are infections that do not usually cause
illness in healthy people. Additionally, HIV makes the body susceptible
to certain cancers.
Here's a breakdown of their nature:
HIV:
A virus that replicates inside CD4 cells.

Weakens the immune system over time.
It can be managed with medication, but not cured.
AIDS:
It occurs in the late stage of HIV infection when the immune system is
severely compromised. This leaves the body vulnerable to opportunistic
infections and cancers. It's important to note that HIV is the virus that
causes AIDS, and people can live for many years with HIV if they receive
proper treatment and maintain a healthy immune system. However,
AIDS is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that requires
medical attention.
Possible Symptoms:
 Early (Acute) HIV:

o Fever
o Chills
o Fatigue
o Muscle aches
o Swollen lymph nodes
o Sore throat
o Mouth ulcers
o Rash
 Later Stages (HIV/AIDS):
o Rapid weight loss
o Recurring fever or night sweats
o Extreme fatigue
o Persistent diarrhea
o Fungal infections (thrush)
o Skin problems
o Swollen lymph nodes
o Pneumonia
Effective prevention methods for HIV transmission:
Safer Sex Practices:
To reduce the risk of HIV transmission during sexual activity, it is

recommended to consistently and correctly use condoms made of latex
or polyurethane. Using lubricant can also help prevent breakage. For
oral sex, thin latex squares called dental dams can be used to create a
barrier between the mouth and genitals.
Limiting sexual partners can also reduce the overall risk of exposure to
HIV, as well as avoid high-risk individuals who are HIV-positive and not
virally suppressed or engage in risky sexual behaviors.
Prevention medications are also available, such as Pre-Exposure

Prophylaxis (PrEP) which can significantly reduce the risk of acquiring
HIV through sex or injection drug use for HIV-negative individuals. Post-
exposure prophylaxis (PEP) medication can also help prevent the virus
from establishing itself in the body if taken within 72 hours of potential
exposure. It is important to seek PEP as soon as possible after potential
exposure.
Other Prevention Methods:
 Harm Reduction Programs: These programs provide sterile

needles and syringes to people who inject drugs, preventing the
sharing of needles and reducing the risk of HIV transmission.
 Treatment as Prevention (TasP): When people living with HIV
achieve viral suppression through effective antiretroviral therapy
(ART), the risk of transmitting the virus to their partners becomes
extremely low, nearly undetectable.
 Sustainable Funding: Ensuring long-term funding for HIV
programs is vital to maintain progress and achieve the u
 Achieving Global Control: Despite progress, disparities in access
to treatment and prevention resources persist. Reaching
vulnerable populations and achieving global control of HIV
remains a significant challenge.
 Stigma Reduction: Combating stigma and discrimination is crucial
for encouraging testing, treatment adherence, and overall well-
being of people living with HIV.
Remember:
While no single method of prevention can guarantee 100%

effectiveness, combining multiple strategies can offer the best
protection against HIV/AIDS. Open and honest communication with
sexual partners about HIV status and risk factors is essential.
Additionally, regular testing for HIV is crucial for early diagnosis and
treatment. The impact of HIV/AIDS on the world has been profound,
causing significant human suffering and disrupting social and economic
development. To better understand its global influence, here is a
breakdown of its effects.
Devastating Public Health Impact:
 Millions Infected: Globally, an estimated 39 million people were living

with HIV at the end of 2022 [WHO]. While new infections are declining,
the total number continues to rise due to increased life expectancy
with treatment.
 Unequal Burden: The epidemic disproportionately affects specific
regions. Sub-Saharan Africa carries the heaviest burden, with nearly
two-thirds of all people living with HIV residing there [KFF].
 Leading Cause of Death (Women): HIV/AIDS remains a leading cause of
death worldwide, particularly among women of reproductive age [KFF].
Social and Economic Disruption:
 Loss of Life and Productivity: Deaths from AIDS have a devastating

impact on families and communities, robbing them of loved ones and
potential economic contributors.
 Orphan Crisis: Millions of children have lost one or both parents to
AIDS, creating a social crisis and straining resources for their care and
education.
 Stigma and Discrimination: People living with HIV often face stigma
and discrimination, hindering access to healthcare and social
opportunities.
Treatment :
There is currently no cure for HIV or AIDS, but there are a variety of
treatments available that can help manage the virus and slow down the
progression of the disease.
Some of the most common treatments for HIV and AIDS include
antiretroviral therapy (ART), which involves taking a combination of
medications that target different aspects of the virus, as well as
medications to treat and prevent opportunistic infections. Other
treatments may include lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular
exercise, and stress management, as well as counseling and support
groups to help manage the emotional and psychological effects of living
with the disease. It's important to work closely with your healthcare
provider to develop a treatment plan that's tailored to your specific
needs and circumstances.

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HIV/AIDS

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune

AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the most advanced

A virus that replicates inside CD4 cells.

 Early (Acute) HIV:

Effective prevention methods for HIV transmission:

Safer Sex Practices:

To reduce the risk of HIV transmission during sexual activity, it is

Prevention medications are also available, such as Pre-Exposure

Other Prevention Methods:

 Harm Reduction Programs: These programs provide sterile

While no single method of prevention can guarantee 100%

Devastating Public Health Impact:

 Millions Infected: Globally, an estimated 39 million people were living

Social and Economic Disruption:

 Loss of Life and Productivity: Deaths from AIDS have a devastating

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