HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that attacks and weakens the body's immune system by targeting important immune cells called CD4 or T-helper cells, which help the body fight infections and diseases. When HIV infects these cells, it gradually destroys them, making the immune system less effective
. AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is the most advanced stage of HIV infection. It occurs when the immune system is severely damaged due to the loss of CD4 cells, leaving the body vulnerable to opportunistic infections, illnesses, and certain cancers that a healthy immune system would normally control
. HIV is transmitted through contact with certain bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk. Common modes of transmission include unprotected sex, sharing needles, and from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding
. There is no cure for HIV, but it can be controlled with antiretroviral therapy (ART), which reduces the viral load in the blood to very low or undetectable levels. People with HIV who maintain an undetectable viral load through treatment can live long, healthy lives and do not transmit the virus sexually
. In summary:
- HIV is the virus that causes infection by attacking the immune system.
- AIDS is the condition that develops when HIV has severely weakened the immune system.
- HIV is transmitted through specific bodily fluids.
- Effective treatment exists to control HIV and prevent progression to AIDS.
This understanding helps manage and prevent HIV/AIDS effectively in individuals and communities
