Question

Below are a few statements related to steps taken by WHO to ensure the prevention of spread of the HIV virus.
I.Ensuring that blood collected and preserved in blood banks is tested for HIV
II.Ensuring the use of only disposable needles and syringes in hospitals & clinics
III.Free distribution of condoms to individuals thus promoting safe intercourse
IV.Controlling intravenous drug abuse
V.Advocating safe sex
VI.Making separate eating rooms for AIDS patients.
How many of the above statements are correct?

• A. 2
• B. 5
• C. 3
• D. 4

Answer 1

The correct option is B 5

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the viral pathogen that causes AIDS, i.e, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome by attacking the helper T lymphocytes and macrophages of the immune system thereby weakening the immune system.

HIV is a contagious disease and spreads via body fluids, sexual contact with the infected person, blood transfusion, infected mother to her child during birth, by use of unsterilised infected needles.

The World Health Organisation(WHO) has suggested certain practices to prevent the spread of the virus. These include:
1.Strictly monitoring the blood collected for blood banks is tested for HIV.
2.Ensuring the use of only disposable needles and syringes in public and private hospitals and clinics.
3.Free distribution of condoms to prevent the transmission of the virus during sexual contact.
4.Controlling drug abuse as they run a high chance of infection by reusing needles that might have been contaminated virus. .
5.Advocating safe sex practices such as use of barriers like condoms to prevent the exchange of body fluids during intercourse.
6.Promoting regular check-ups for HIV in susceptible populations such as prostitutes and sex workers.
Contrary to popular belief, HIV does not spread through touch, hugs, regular contact, eating together or normal proximity with patients. Thus making separate eating rooms for AIDS patients is unnecessary as it would play no role in preventing the transmission of the virus.

Thus HIV/AIDS positive patients should not be alienated from friends and family due to the fear of spread of the disease through contact or proximity. Instead for the physical and mental well-being of the AIDS patients, it is absolutely necessary that they are not isolated or judged.
Thus, only statement VI is incorrect.