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What is HIV?

Verified Answer

HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, especially the white blood cells called CD4 cells (T-cells). These cells help the body fight infections and diseases.

When HIV weakens the immune system over time, the body becomes less able to protect itself from harmful germs, bacteria, and viruses.

How HIV Spreads

HIV can spread through the exchange of certain body fluids from an infected person, such as:

  • Blood

  • Semen

  • Vaginal fluids

  • Breast milk

Common ways HIV spreads include:

  • Unprotected sexual contact

  • Sharing infected needles or syringes

  • From mother to baby during pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding

  • Transfusion of infected blood (rare due to blood testing)

How HIV Does Not Spread

HIV does not spread through:

  • Touching or hugging

  • Sharing food or water

  • Mosquito bites

  • Sneezing or coughing

  • Using the same toilet or utensils

Symptoms of HIV

Early symptoms may include:

  • Fever

  • Fatigue

  • Sore throat

  • Skin rashes

  • Swollen lymph nodes

Some people may not show symptoms for many years.

HIV and AIDS

If HIV is not treated, it can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). AIDS is the final stage of HIV infection where the immune system becomes severely damaged.

Prevention of HIV

HIV infection can be prevented by:

  • Practicing safe sex

  • Using sterile needles

  • Testing blood before transfusion

  • Regular HIV testing

  • Taking proper medical guidance during pregnancy

Treatment

There is currently no complete cure for HIV, but it can be controlled with medicines called Antiretroviral Therapy (ART). These medicines help infected people live long and healthy lives by reducing the amount of virus in the body.