HIV/AIDS is a global problem, affecting many lives since its discovery in the 1980s. Despite progress, misconceptions and biases persist. This blog aims to explore HIV/AIDS, covering its origins, transmission, prevention, treatments, and recent research.

Common myths about HIV:

1) Casual Contact Myth:

Myth: HIV spreads through casual contact.

Fact: You can’t catch it by giving hugs, shaking hands, or sharing utensils.

2) Kissing Myth:

Myth: You can get HIV through kissing or saliva. 

Fact: HIV can’t spread through kissing or saliva.

3) HIV vs. AIDS:

Myth: HIV and AIDS are the same. 

Fact: If HIV is left untreated, it can progress to AIDS. However, it’s important to note that not everyone who has HIV will develop AIDS.

4) Group Affiliation Myth:

Myth: Only certain groups get HIV 

Fact: Engaging in risky behaviors puts anyone at risk

5) Death Sentence Myth:

Myth: Having HIV used to be considered a death sentence.

Fact: With treatment, HIV is manageable, allowing a healthy life.

6) Public Facilities Myth:

Myth: You can catch HIV by using public facilities.

Fact: This is not transmitted through toilets and swimming pools.

1. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus):

Definition: HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells (T cells), which help the immune system fight off infections. If left untreated, HIV can lead to the disease AIDS.

Transmission:

HIV is primarily transmitted through unprotected sex, sharing contaminated needles, from an HIV-positive mother to her baby during childbirth or breastfeeding, and rarely through blood transfusions or organ transplants (now uncommon due to screening procedures).

Symptoms:

In the initial phase of HIV infection, people might go through symptoms similar to the flu. However, HIV often advances without any noticeable symptoms. As the immune system weakens, more severe symptoms and illnesses can occur.

2. AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome):

Definition: AIDS is the advanced stage of HIV infection. It is characterized by severe damage to the immune system, making the person susceptible to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.

Criteria for diagnosis:

When a person’s CD4 cell count falls below a certain level or when they experience certain opportunistic infections or cancers that occur in association with advanced HIV disease, a diagnosis of AIDS is made.

Symptoms:

• AIDS defines several symptoms, such as significant weight loss, persistent diarrhea, frequent fevers, and infections such as tuberculosis and pneumonia that take advantage of a weakened immune system.