Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
HIV, short for Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. If HIV is not treated, it can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). There is currently no effective cure. Once people get HIV, they have it for life. But with proper medical care, HIV can be controlled.
Classification and Structure
HIV is a species of Lentivirus, a subgroup of retrovirus. It is present in bodily fluids as both free virus particles and virus within infected immune cells. HIV infects vital cells in the human immune system, such as helper T cells (specifically CD4 + T cells), macrophages, and dendritic cells.
Transmission
In most cases, HIV is a sexually transmitted infection and occurs by contact with or transfer of blood, pre-ejaculate, semen, and vaginal fluids. Non-sexual transmission can occur from an infected mother to her infant during pregnancy, during childbirth by exposure to her blood or vaginal fluid, and through breast milk.
Effects on the Immune System
HIV infection leads to low levels of CD4 + T cells through a number of mechanisms. When CD4 + T cell numbers decline below a critical level, cell-mediated immunity is lost, and the body becomes progressively more susceptible to opportunistic infections. This leads to the development of AIDS.
Prevention and Treatment
Research has shown that HIV is untransmittable through condomless sexual intercourse if the HIV-positive partner has a consistently undetectable viral load. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is used to manage HIV and prevent its progression to AIDS. ART involves taking a combination of HIV medicines every day as prescribed.
Conclusion
HIV/AIDS is a significant global health issue. Despite advances in treatment, the disease continues to be a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Prevention strategies, early diagnosis, and access to effective treatment are key to managing the HIV/AIDS pandemic..
