HIV/AIDS Overview

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) are closely related conditions, with HIV being the virus that can lead to AIDS if untreated. This disease affects the immune system by attacking CD4 cells (also known as T-helper cells), which are essential for fighting infections. Over time, HIV weakens the immune system, leaving the body vulnerable to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.

Stages of HIV Infection

Acute HIV Infection

Occurs 2-4 weeks after exposure to the virus.

Symptoms may resemble the flu, including fever, sore throat, rash, and swollen lymph nodes.

During this stage, the virus multiplies rapidly, and the infected person is highly contagious.

Chronic HIV Infection (Clinical Latency Stage)

The virus remains active but reproduces at lower levels.

This stage can last for several years with or without symptoms.

Without treatment, HIV will eventually progress to AIDS.

AIDS

The most advanced stage of HIV infection.

The immune system is severely damaged, leading to a CD4 count below 200 cells/mm³ or the occurrence of opportunistic infections such as tuberculosis or pneumonia.

Without treatment, life expectancy at this stage is typically about 1-3 years.

Symptoms of HIV/AIDS

Early Symptoms of HIV (Acute Phase):

Fever

Fatigue

Muscle aches

Night sweats

Rash

Mouth ulcers

Symptoms of Chronic HIV Infection:

Often asymptomatic for years.

Gradual immune decline may cause recurrent infections or slow wound healing.

Symptoms of AIDS:

Rapid weight loss

Persistent fever or night sweats

Chronic diarrhea

Unexplained fatigue

Recurrent infections (e.g., thrush, tuberculosis)

Skin lesions or rashes

Memory loss or neurological issues

Causes and Transmission

HIV is transmitted through the exchange of certain bodily fluids, including:

Blood

Semen

Vaginal and rectal fluids

Breast milk

Common modes of transmission include:

Unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person.

Sharing needles or syringes.

From mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

Blood transfusions or organ transplants with contaminated blood (rare in places with robust screening).

HIV is NOT spread by:

Casual contact (hugging, handshakes).

Air, water, or insect bites.

Risk Factors

Having unprotected sex.

Sharing needles or drug injection equipment.

Having other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Receiving unsafe medical treatments in places with limited healthcare resources.

Diagnosis

HIV can be diagnosed through:

Antibody Tests: Detect HIV antibodies in blood or saliva.

Antigen/Antibody Tests: Identify both HIV antigens and antibodies, often used to detect HIV early.

Nucleic Acid Tests (NATs): Detect the virus itself, highly sensitive but less commonly used due to cost.

Testing is crucial, as early detection enables timely treatment and reduces the risk of spreading the virus.

Treatment

HIV/AIDS is currently incurable but manageable with Antiretroviral Therapy (ART).

What is ART?

A combination of drugs that suppress HIV replication, preventing progression to AIDS.

Helps maintain a near-normal life expectancy.

Goals of ART:

Reduce viral load to undetectable levels.

Restore and maintain immune function.

Prevent the development of drug resistance.

Reduce the risk of transmission to others.

Common ART Drugs:

Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTIs)

Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NNRTIs)

Protease Inhibitors (PIs)

Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitors (INSTIs)

Entry or Fusion Inhibitors

Adherence to treatment is critical to ensure effectiveness and to avoid resistance.

Prevention

Safe Practices

Use condoms during sexual activity.

Avoid sharing needles.

Regular STI testing for sexually active individuals.

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP):

A daily medication for high-risk individuals to prevent HIV infection.

Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP):

Emergency medication taken within 72 hours of potential exposure to HIV.

Treatment of Pregnant Women:

ART for HIV-positive mothers significantly reduces the risk of transmission to the baby.

Global Impact

HIV/AIDS affects millions globally, with Sub-Saharan Africa bearing the highest burden.

Despite advancements, stigma, lack of access to healthcare, and misinformation remain significant challenges.

Living with HIV/AIDS

With proper treatment, individuals with HIV can lead long, healthy lives. Early diagnosis, adherence to ART, and a supportive environment are crucial for managing the condition and improving quality of life.