Transmission:
HIV can be transmitted through certain body fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. The most common modes of transmission include:
1 .Unprotected sexual intercourse: Anal, vaginal, or oral sex with an infected partner without using condoms or other barrier methods.
Sharing needles: HIV can be transmitted through sharing contaminated needles and syringes, commonly among intravenous drug users.
2.Mother-to-child transmission: An infected mother can transmit the virus to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. However, with proper medical care and interventions, the risk of transmission can be significantly reduced.
Stages of HIV infection:
HIV infection typically progresses through three stages:
3.Acute HIV infection: This occurs within 2-4 weeks after initial exposure to the virus. Symptoms may resemble flu-like symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, sore throat, swollen glands, and rash. During this stage, the virus replicates rapidly, and individuals are highly infectious.
4.Clinical latency: Also known as the chronic or asymptomatic stage, this phase can last for several years. The virus is still active but reproduces at lower levels. Many people may not experience any noticeable symptoms during this period, but the virus continues to damage the immune system.
AIDS: Without treatment, HIV infection progresses to AIDS. This stage is characterized by severe immune system damage, as evidenced by a significant decline in CD4 cell count or the development of opportunistic infections (infections that take advantage of a weakened immune system). AIDS is diagnosed when a person's CD4 cell count falls below 200 cells per microliter or when certain opportunistic infections or cancers develop.
•Symptoms and complications:
The symptoms of HIV/AIDS can vary depending on the stage of infection and the presence of opportunistic infections. Common symptoms may include persistent fatigue, rapid weight loss, recurrent fever, night sweats, persistent diarrhea, oral thrush, and skin rashes. As the immune system weakens further, opportunistic infections like tuberculosis, pneumonia, and certain types of cancers (Kaposi sarcoma, lymphoma) become more common.
•Diagnosis and treatment:
HIV infection is diagnosed through blood tests that detect the presence of antibodies or the virus itself. Early detection is crucial for timely intervention and treatment. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the standard treatment for HIV/AIDS. ART involves a combination of medications that suppress the replication of the virus, slow down the progression of the disease, and help preserve the immune system. When taken consistently and correctly, ART can significantly improve the quality of life and increase the lifespan of people living with HIV/AIDS.
••Prevention:
Preventing HIV transmission is key in controlling the spread of the virus. Effective prevention strategies include:
Safe sex practices: Using condoms correctly and consistently during sexual intercourse.
Needle exchange programs: Providing clean needles and syringes to injection drug users.
Testing and counseling: Regular HIV testing, particularly for individuals at higher risk, and access to counseling and support services.
Prevention of mother-to-child transmission: Providing antiretroviral drugs to HIV-positive pregnant women, delivery through cesarean section when necessary, and avoiding breastfeeding.
Public awareness, education, and addressing stigma associated with HIV/AIDS are also essential in promoting prevention efforts and supporting those affected by the disease.
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