human immunodeficiency virus

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the immune system, which is responsible for fighting off infections and diseases. HIV specifically targets and destroys CD4+ T cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system. As the number of CD4+ T cells decreases, the immune system becomes weakened and more susceptible to infections.

HIV is transmitted through the exchange of bodily fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. The most common modes of transmission are unprotected sexual contact, sharing of needles or other drug injection equipment, and mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

HIV infection can cause a wide range of symptoms, from flu-like symptoms in the acute stage of infection to more severe symptoms in later stages, such as weight loss, chronic diarrhea, and opportunistic infections. HIV can be diagnosed through a blood test that detects antibodies to the virus, and there are effective treatments available that can suppress the virus and prevent the progression of HIV to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the immune system, which is responsible for fighting off infections and diseases. HIV infects specific cells of the immune system called CD4 cells or T helper cells. Once inside the CD4 cells, the virus uses the cell’s machinery to replicate itself and destroy the cell in the process. This weakens the immune system, making the person infected with HIV more susceptible to other infections and diseases.

HIV is primarily spread through contact with certain bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. The most common modes of transmission are through unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles or syringes with an infected person, and from an HIV-positive mother to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

HIV can be managed with antiretroviral therapy (ART), which is a combination of medications that can slow down the progression of the virus and prevent it from developing into AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), a condition in which the immune system is severely compromised. While there is currently no cure for HIV, ART can allow people living with HIV to live long and healthy lives. It is also important to note that early detection and treatment of HIV can significantly improve outcomes for those living with the virus.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the immune system, the body’s natural defense against infections and diseases. HIV primarily infects CD4+ T cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune response.

When HIV infects a CD4+ T cell, it integrates its genetic material into the cell’s DNA and begins to replicate. As the virus multiplies, it destroys the CD4+ T cells, weakening the immune system and making it vulnerable to infections and cancers.

HIV is primarily transmitted through unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles or other injection equipment, and from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. There is no cure for HIV, but antiretroviral therapy (ART) can suppress the virus and allow people living with HIV to live long and healthy lives. Additionally, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can prevent HIV transmission in people who are at high risk for infection.

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