Understanding HIV

Understanding HIV/AIDS

What is HIV/AIDS?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, making it harder for the

body to fight infections and diseases. Over time, HIV can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, or

AIDS, which is the final stage of HIV infection. People with AIDS have badly damaged immune systems and

are vulnerable to opportunistic infections or cancers.

HIV is transmitted through contact with certain body fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids,

and breast milk from a person who has HIV. The most common ways HIV is spread are through unprotected

sexual contact, sharing needles or syringes, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. HIV

is not spread through casual contact like hugging, shaking hands, or sharing food or water.

After contracting HIV, a person may experience flu-like symptoms within 2 to 4 weeks. However, some

people may not feel sick during this stage. This period is called acute HIV infection. The virus multiplies

rapidly and spreads throughout the body. The immune system responds by producing HIV antibodies.

Without treatment, HIV progresses to a chronic infection stage. The virus is still active but reproduces at low

levels. Many people may not have symptoms or only mild ones. With proper medical care, HIV can be

controlled. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the use of HIV medicines to treat the infection. ART helps lower the

viral load, maintains the immune system, and reduces the risk of transmitting the virus.

Adherence to ART can help people with HIV live long and healthy lives. Starting ART early after diagnosis is

essential for better health outcomes. It is also vital for preventing HIV transmission. People whose HIV is

undetectable due to effective treatment cannot transmit the virus to others, a concept known as

"Undetectable = Untransmittable" (U=U).

Prevention strategies include using condoms, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and avoiding sharing

needles. PrEP is a daily medication taken by people at high risk to prevent HIV infection. Post-exposure

prophylaxis (PEP) is another method, taken within 72 hours after potential exposure to HIV to prevent

infection.Understanding HIV/AIDS

Education and awareness are crucial in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Reducing stigma and discrimination

associated with HIV can encourage more people to get tested and seek treatment. Routine testing is the only

way to know one's HIV status, and early detection improves the effectiveness of treatment.

There is currently no cure for HIV, but research continues toward a vaccine and a functional cure. Meanwhile,

living with HIV requires consistent medical care, a healthy lifestyle, and support from friends, family, and the

community.

With proper care and treatment, people living with HIV can enjoy fulfilling lives, build families, and contribute

positively to society. Fighting HIV requires a collective effort of education, compassion, scientific

advancement, and unwavering support.

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