HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) as per WHO estimations for the year 2021 is a significant public health problem. About 37 million people are thought to be suffering by HIV. HIV remains a risky virus, despite the advances in medical technology. It affects the immune system, and gradually destroys it. This virus is plagued by various myths and falsehoods which must be spelled out. In this blog post, we will dive deep into the world of the HIV virus to understand the critical aspects that one needs to know.
What exactly is HIV?
HIV is a type of virus that attacks and weakens the immune system of the person who is suffering, making it difficult for the body to combat illnesses and infections effectively. It attacks the cells known as CD4 (T) cells, which are essential for triggering the immune system's response. They die. Once the number of CD4 cells present in the body falls to a predetermined threshold, the patient will be more susceptible to infection and illnesses. Whether you are looking additional info about human immunodeficiency virus, check out this site.
How does HIV propagate?
HIV is spread through the exchange of body fluids such as vaginal secretions, and the breast milk. HIV is transmitted from person to person via sexual contact without protection, sharing needles and syringes with an infected person, from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding, and by blood transfusions (rarely nowadays due to rigorous screening methods).
Signs and symptoms of HIV
Early symptoms of HIV can be similar to flu symptoms and are difficult to differentiate. Common signs include fatigue, headaches and muscle tension, a sore throat and larger lymph glands. When your immune system is seriously compromised, the symptoms may include diarrhea, weight loss long-term, dementia and other diseases that are opportunistic.
Prevention and Treatment
HIV is not curable However, there are many ways to manage it, and slow its expansion. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the most common treatment that is used to stop the virus's growth and improve the health of your immune system. It consists of a mixture of medications that need to be taken regularly and correctly throughout the course of one's life.
It is essential to prevent HIV transmission through safe sexual activity and using condoms. Do not share syringes, needles, and needles. Opt for frequent HIV counselling and testing. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical in preventing the progression of the virus, as well as reducing risks, and improving quality of life.
Myths and Misconceptions
HIV is often surrounded by inaccurate myths and misinformation, that can result in stigmatization and discrimination of individuals living with HIV. One common misconception is that HIV is spread through contacts, like touching, kissing or sharing food. However, HIV cannot spread in these ways as stigmatizing those infected with HIV may affect their physical and mental health.
HIV Global Status
Despite numerous attempts to limit the spread in HIV, HIV still remains a major public health issue all over the world. By 2021, 1.5 million people around the world have been diagnosed with HIV and 820,000 died due to AIDS-related illnesses. HIV is a threat to vulnerable populations including transgender individuals, men who have had sex with other men as well as sexworkers who use substances. To curb the spreading of HIV the first step is to tackle the structural, social, and economic factors that contribute to HIV vulnerability.
Conclusions
HIV continues to be a huge global health problem so understanding its critical aspects is crucial to prevent its transmission and manage the virus. Practicing safe sex, regular HIV tests, and timely diagnosis and treatment is crucial in stopping HIV progress and improving the quality of life for people suffering from HIV. It's also crucial to eliminate the misunderstandings and myths about HIV in order to decrease stigmatization and prejudice against people with the virus. It is our collective responsibility in order to eradicate HIV in the world as well as the impact it has on society.
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