What is the Full form of HIV?
The full form of HIV is the Human Immunodeficiency Virus. The virus tends to lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) if not diagnosed. Unlike some other viruses, even with the appropriate healthcare, the human body can not entirely rid itself of HIV. Once HIV attacks the human body, the individual will have it for life.
HIV originated in non-human primates and gradually spread to humans over the aeons. Even though the illness had been around for a long time, it was diagnosed clinically in the 1980s. Ever since then, it has spread all over the world, killing over 25 million people to date.
Way of spreading HIV infection
HIV has a long time of incubation until it can start affecting the immune system, which is almost ten years. The immune system is the natural defence mechanism of the human body, and thus, HIV will make it difficult for the patient to fight against diseases. HIV breaks down a specific group of WBC and T-helper cells (CD4 cells). Even this virus makes copies of its own within these cells. HIV infection is transmitted via the following methods.
- Unprotected sexual contact with someone already infected.
- Reuse needles which an infected individual uses.
- From infected mother via the placenta to infant.
- A person infected with a blood transfusion.
Symptoms of HIV
Generally, the signs of HIV infection occur after a prolonged period. Some of the possible symptoms often experienced by HIV-infected individuals are as follows
- Fever
- Chills
- Skin rash
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Swollen glands
- Joint pain
- Sore throat
- Upset stomach
HIV prevention methods
- A test called ELISA, which stands for Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay, can detect HIV infection. So far, AIDS is incurable; therefore, the wisest solution is HIV prevention.
- AIDS awareness is another important factor. Since it does not propagate by mere physical contact, the infected individuals must not be targeted and should be handled pleasantly.
- Don’t share razors, toothbrushes, syringes, needles, etc., with anyone.
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