Understanding HIV/AIDS: What Everyone Needs to Know

1. What Is HIV? HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically the CD4 cells responsible for fighting infections. Without treatment, HIV weakens the immune system until the body can no longer defend itself from illnesses. 2. What Is AIDS? AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the most advanced stage of HIV. A person reaches this stage when their immune system is severely damaged or when they develop certain serious infections or cancers. --- 3. How HIV Is Transmitted HIV spreads through specific body fluids, not casual contact. Main Ways HIV Spreads Unprotected sexual intercourse (vaginal or anal) with an infected person Sharing needles or sharp objects Mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding Blood transfusion with contaminated blood (rare in countries with proper screening) HIV is NOT spread through Kissing, hugging, or handshakes Sharing food, cups, or toilets Sweat, tears, or saliva Mosquitoes or insects --- 4. Early Signs & Symptoms of HIV Symptoms vary, and some people show none for years. Early (2–4 weeks after infection) Fever Sore throat Skin rash Swollen lymph nodes Headache Fatigue Muscle/joint pain Chronic Stage (months to years) Persistent tiredness Weight loss Night sweats Long-lasting fever Recurrent infections Skin issues AIDS Stage At this stage, symptoms become severe: Major weight loss Chronic diarrhea Persistent cough Frequent infections Skin lesions Memory problems Opportunistic infections (TB, pneumonia, etc.) --- 5. Stages of HIV Infection 1. Acute HIV Infection High viral load; symptoms may resemble malaria or flu. 2. Chronic HIV Infection (Asymptomatic) Virus still active but multiplying slowly. 3. AIDS Immune system is badly damaged; life-threatening illnesses occur. --- 6. How HIV Is Diagnosed Testing is the only way to know. Types of Tests Rapid HIV Test (finger prick) – results in 15–20 minutes ELISA test – highly accurate PCR test – detects HIV earlier than other tests Everyone who is sexually active should test at least once a year or every 3–6 months if at higher risk. --- 7. HIV Treatment Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) ART is the recommended treatment. It: Reduces the amount of virus in the body Protects the immune system Allows a person with HIV to live a long, healthy life Prevents transmission (when viral load becomes undetectable) Undetectable = Untransmittable (U = U) A person on ART with an undetectable viral load cannot pass HIV to sexual partners. --- 8. Prevention Methods Safer Sex Always use condoms correctly Avoid multiple partners Know your partner’s status Medical Prevention PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) for high-risk individuals PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) within 72 hours of possible exposure Lifestyle Safety Do NOT share razors, needles, or sharp objects Ensure blood transfusions come from screened sources Pregnant women should test early to prevent mother-to-child transmission --- 9. Common Myths vs Facts Myth Fact HIV can be cured with herbs or prayer No cure exists yet; ART is the only effective treatment HIV spreads through kissing or touching False — it does not Only “promiscuous” people get HIV Anyone can get HIV HIV means death With ART, people can live normal lifespans --- 10. Risk Factors Unprotected sex Multiple partners Sharing needles Having STIs Blood exposure Mother-to-child transmission --- 11. When to Seek Medical Help After unprotected sex If you notice HIV-like symptoms If you shared a sharp object If you were sexually assaulted During pregnancy (mandatory testing) If your partner tests positive --- 12. Living With HIV People living with HIV can: Work Have relationships Marry Have children safely Live long, productive lives with ART Support, regular checkups, and adherence to medication are essential. --- 13. Key Takeaways HIV is preventable HIV is treatable Testing is simple and confidential Early treatment saves lives Educate others and reduce stigma