Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
The HIV is a virus that attacks the body ‘s immune system and is targeting the white blood cells called CD4 T cells.
And if this condition is left untreated, this will lead to acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) which is the most advanced stage of HIV infection.
How is HIV being transmitted? The virus can infect a person by the following ways:
1. Vaginal sex
2. Anal sex –
– this carries high risk as tearing of the anal lining will increase the risk of transmission
– this imposes higher risk than vaginal sex
3. Blood transfusions
4. The use of illicit Intravenous drugs
5. Oral sex
6. Mother to child transmission
– this is perinatal transmission and can be through 3 mechanisms
a. Intrauterine (5-10% risk)
b. Peripartum ( 10-20%)
c. Post partum ( through breastfeeding) however the risk of HIV transmission through breastmilk on infected mothers and on treatment is less than 1%.
So, there is no evidence yet that one can be infected with HIV through casual contact like the following:
– sharing a drinking fountain
– mosquito bites
– shaking hands
– donating blood
– kissing
– swimming in a pool
– hugging
– and using a public restroom
The affected individuals are mostly asymptomatic and for those who manifest symptoms, it could vary depending on the stage of infection. The usual symptoms are the following:
– fever for more than 1 month
– rashes
– joint pains
– enlarged lymph nodes
– malnutrition
– chronic diarrhea 3x/ day for 14 days
– oral candidiasis
– tuberculosis
– and generalized dermatitis
In teens and adults with AIDS, they show the following symptoms:
– rapid weight loss
– intense fatigue
– swollen lymph nodes
– persistent diarrhea
– night sweats
– and pneumonia
To prevent HIV that may lead to AIDS if left untreated, this is very important:
A – abstain
B- be mutually faithful
C- condom use correctly and consistently
D- do not use illicit drugs
E- education and early detection
Much more, to prevent infected pregnant woman to transmit HIV to their babies, they should have:
– early detection
– good prenatal care
– take treatment throughout pregnancy and childbirth
– give prophylactic treatment to baby
– and can give replacement feeding or pasteurized donor human milk to the babies
It is noteworthy to know that Tuberculosis (TB) is the leading cause of death among people living with HIV.