HIV/AIDS
HIV stands for Human Immuno Deficiency Virus, whereas AIDS is the acronym for Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome.
HIV/AIDS has been categorised as the most common STD prevailing in the community.
HIV/AIDS is caused by an organism i.e. virus named HIV which is a retrovirus . It has 2 viral strains i.HIV - I & ii.HIV – II
AIDS has its root of origin in Africa as the first case was noted there since then it has been spreaded in the society in a wide spread manner, bringing a fatal end to those who become the sufferers.
CAUSES: - HIV organism, retro virus.
Virus Transmission:-
The modes of transmission of HIV virus are as follows:-
1) Through sexual contact i.e. via the horizontal transmission, commonly defined mode of transmission of AIDS.
The victims are spouse of infected persons, bisexuals, multiple sexpartners, prostitutes, homosexuals, etc.
2) From infected mother to the foetus i.e. via vertical transmission:-
The foetus in the womb acquires the HIV/AIDS by the mother infected with it. HIV virus is a placenta-crossing virus; so the foetus is at risk to acquire AIDS from the infected mother.
3) Through the use of contaminated/infected blood and products.
The use of blood and blood products infected with HIV/AIDS, if transfused to normal person; it may transmit HIV to that person.
The use of common needles and syringes. This predisposes the IV drugs abusers to acquire HIV AIDS.
4) Others:-
Some research studies also say that the use of common razors and the secretions like breast milk, tears, saliva, semen, etc may also contain the HIV organisms.
PATHOPHYSIOLOGY:
The organism (HIV) enters through any of the mode of entry and gains entry into the haematogenous mute and lymphatic routes where it attacks the immune cells of the body.
The Helper T-cells and CD4 cells are mostly invaded. Thus the body’s immunity gets diminished in the long run.
