HIV
What Is HIV ?
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that weakens the immune system by attacking white blood cells. If left untreated, it can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), the most advanced stage of the infection.
HIV compromises the immune system, making the body more vulnerable to diseases such as tuberculosis, infections, and certain cancers.
The virus is transmitted through the body fluids of an infected person, including blood, breast milk, semen, and vaginal fluids. It is not spread through casual contact like kissing, hugging, or sharing food. HIV can also be passed from mother to baby.
HIV can be prevented and managed with antiretroviral t
Signs and symptoms
HIV symptoms vary depending on the stage of infection.
In the early months after infection, HIV spreads more easily, but many people are unaware of their status. Some may experience no symptoms initially, while others may develop flu-like symptoms, such as:
- Fever
- Headache
- Rash
- Sore throat
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Weight loss
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Cough
- Tuberculosis (TB)
- Cryptococcal meningitis
- Severe bacterial infections
- Cancers like lymphomas and Kaposi’s sarcoma
Treatment
There is currently no cure for HIV, but it can be managed with antiretroviral drugs that prevent the virus from replicating in the body.
While antiretroviral therapy (ART) doesn’t eliminate HIV, it strengthens the immune system, helping individuals fight other infections. ART must be taken daily for life.
By lowering the amount of virus in the body, ART prevents symptoms and enables people with HIV to lead healthy, full lives. Those on ART with no detectable virus in their blood cannot transmit HIV to their sexual partners.
Pregnant women with HIV should start ART as soon as possible to protect their health and prevent transmission to the baby during pregnancy or through breastfeeding.
Advanced HIV remains a challenge, but the World Health Organization (WHO) is helping countries implement care strategies to reduce illness and death. New HIV treatments, including short courses for opportunistic infections like cryptococcal meningitis, and injectable ART formulations, are being developed to improve treatment options in the future.
Prevention
HIV is a preventable disease. To reduce the risk of HIV infection, consider the following steps:
- Use male or female condoms during sex.
- Get tested for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
- Consider voluntary medical male circumcision.
- Utilize harm reduction services if you inject or use drugs.
Doctors may also recommend medications and devices to prevent HIV, such as:
- Antiretroviral drugs (ARVs), including oral Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and long-acting products.
- Dapivirine vaginal rings.
- Injectable long-acting cabotegravir.