What is HIV & AIDS? Difference between HIV and AIDS.

Mamuth-Writers January 05, 2023

What is HIV & AIDS ?

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the immune system and can lead to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). HIV is transmitted through the exchange of bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk. HIV is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex, as well as through the sharing of needles and other injecting equipment. It is also possible for an HIV-positive mother to transmit the virus to her baby during childbirth, although this can be prevented through proper medical care.

AIDS is the most advanced stage of HIV infection. It is defined by the development of certain opportunistic infections or cancers, or a CD4+ T-cell count below 200 cells/mm3 (a type of immune cell). People with AIDS have severely compromised immune systems and are at high risk for serious illness and death.

It's important to understand the distinction between HIV and AIDS because they are not the same thing. HIV is a virus that can lead to AIDS, but not everyone with HIV progresses to AIDS. With proper medical care and treatment, it is possible for people with HIV to live long, healthy lives and to significantly reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to others.

There is currently no cure for HIV, but antiretroviral therapy (ART) can effectively manage the virus and help people with HIV live long, healthy lives. ART involves taking a combination of HIV medications (called an HIV regimen) to suppress the virus and prevent its progression to AIDS. It is important for people with HIV to consistently take their HIV medications as prescribed and to visit a healthcare provider regularly to monitor their HIV infection.

In summary, HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system and can lead to AIDS. AIDS is the most advanced stage of HIV infection and is defined by the development of certain opportunistic infections or cancers, or a CD4+ T-cell count below 200 cells/mm3. With proper medical care and treatment, it is possible for people with HIV to live long, healthy lives and to significantly reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to others