Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically targeting and weakening CD4 cells (T cells),which are crucial for the body's immune defense. If left untreated, HIV can progress to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), where the immune system is severely compromised, making the body vulnerable to opportunistic infections and cancers. Early detection, effective treatment, and ongoing management can allow individuals living with HIV to maintain a high quality of life.

Risk Factors:

• Unprotected Sex
• Multiple Sexual Partners
• Needle Sharing
• Mother to Child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding
• Blood Transfusions: Receiving contaminated blood products
• History sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Symptoms:

• Acute HIV Infection (2-4 weeks after exposure): Flu-like symptoms, including fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, rash, and muscle aches (similar to flu symptoms).
• Asymptomatic Stage (Chronic HIV): Many individuals experience no symptoms for several years, while the virus continues to damage the immune system.
• Advanced HIV / AIDS: Without treatment, HIV can progress to AIDS, where symptoms may include extreme weight loss, frequent infections, night sweats, chronic diarrhea, and unexplained fever.

Prevention and Early Detection:

• Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): A daily medication that can reduce the risk of contracting HIV in high-risk individuals.
• Post-exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): Emergency medication taken within 72 hours of potential HIV exposure to prevent infection.
• Condom Use
• Using clean needles
• Regular HIV Testing: Early detection through regular HIV testing allows individuals to start antiretroviral therapy (ART) early, improving long-term health outcomes and preventing transmission.
• Safe Blood Transfusions

Diagnosis and Staging:

• HIV Antibody Test (ELISA):  By identifying antibodies the body produces in response to the virus.
• HIV-1 and HIV-2 Antibody Test: Antibodies to both HIV-1 and HIV-2, the two main strains of the virus. A positive result can lead to further testing.
• HIV RNA PCR Test: Measures the actual amount of HIV in the blood (viral load)
• CD4 Count: Measures the number of CD4 cells in the blood
• HIV Antigen/Antibody Test: Detects both HIV antibodies and antigens (early markers of infection)

Why Regular Screening Matters?

HIV can go undetected for years without symptoms. Regular testing, like the HIV antibody test, RNA PCR, and CD4 count, allows early treatment with ART, reducing the viral load, preventing AIDS, and lowering transmission risk.