HIV/AIDS

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a viral infection that attacks the body's immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells), which help the immune system fight off infections.

Transmission

HIV is transmitted through:

• Unprotected sex with an infected person
• Sharing needles or syringes with an infected person
• Mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding
• Blood transfusions from an infected donor (although this is rare in countries with strict blood screening protocols)
• Occupational exposure, such as needlestick injuries, in healthcare settings

Symptoms

The symptoms of HIV infection can vary depending on the stage of the disease. The stages include:

• Acute HIV infection: Flu-like symptoms, such as fever, chills, and rash, appear within 2-4 weeks after infection.
• Clinical latency: A long period during which the virus is active but not causing symptoms. This stage can last for years or even decades.
• AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome): The most advanced stage of HIV infection, characterized by severe immune system damage and increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections.

Diagnosis

HIV is diagnosed using:

• Antibody tests (e.g., ELISA, Western blot) that detect the presence of HIV antibodies in the blood
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests that detect the genetic material of the virus
• Rapid tests that provide quick results using oral fluid or blood samples

Treatment and Management

While there is no cure for HIV, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can effectively manage the infection. ART involves:

• A combination of medications that suppress the virus and prevent its progression to AIDS
• Regular monitoring of CD4 cell counts and viral loads to adjust treatment as needed
• Prevention and treatment of opportunistic infections and related illnesses

Prevention

To prevent HIV transmission:

• Use condoms or other barrier methods during sex
• Avoid sharing needles or syringes
• Get tested for HIV regularly, especially if you are at high risk
• Consider pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) if you are at high risk of infection
• Follow safe blood handling and disposal procedures in healthcare settings

Complications and Related Illnesses

HIV/AIDS can increase the risk of:

• Opportunistic infections, such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, and toxoplasmosis
• Certain types of cancer, including Kaposi's sarcoma, lymphoma, and cervical cancer
• Neurological disorders, such as HIV-associated dementia and neuropathy
• Mental health issues, including depression and anxiety

Epidemiology

HIV/AIDS is a global health issue, with:

• An estimated 37.7 million people living with HIV worldwide (as of 2020)
• 1.5 million new infections occurring annually (as of 2020)
• 680,000 AIDS-related deaths reported in 2020

Research and Development

Ongoing research focuses on:

• Developing an HIV vaccine
• Improving ART regimens and reducing treatment side effects
• Exploring new therapeutic approaches, such as gene editing and immunotherapy
• Enhancing prevention strategies, including PrEP and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)