HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells), which are crucial for fighting infections. If left untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), a condition where the immune system becomes severely compromised, making the body more vulnerable to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.

Transmission

HIV is transmitted through certain body fluids from a person who has HIV. This includes:

• Blood
• Semen
• Vaginal fluids
• Rectal fluids
• Breast milk

Common routes of transmission include:

• Unprotected sexual contact with an infected person
• Sharing needles or syringes
• From mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding
• Blood transfusions (rare in countries with rigorous screening)

Symptoms

Acute HIV Infection (2-4 weeks after exposure)

• Flu-like symptoms (fever, sore throat, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes)
• Rash

Chronic HIV Infection (Clinical Latency Stage)

• May not have symptoms for several years, but the virus is still active.
• Can be transmitted to others.

AIDS (Last stage of HIV infection)

• Rapid weight loss
• Recurring fever or profuse night sweats
• Extreme fatigue
• Prolonged swelling of the lymph nodes
• Diarrhea that lasts for more than a week
• Pneumonia
• Memory loss, depression, and other neurologic disorders

Diagnosis

• Antibody tests: Detect antibodies to HIV in the blood or oral fluid.
• Antigen tests: Detect both HIV antibodies and antigens (a part of the virus).
• Nucleic acid tests (NAT): Detect the actual virus in the blood.

Living with HIV

With proper medical care, many people with HIV live long, healthy lives. Regular medical check-ups, adherence to ART, and a healthy lifestyle are crucial for managing the condition.