HIV/AIDS

Core Mechanisms and Progression

• HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) attacks and destroys CD4 cells, a type of white blood cell crucial for immune function.
• Without treatment, this leads to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), the most advanced stage, characterized by a severely damaged immune system.
• The progression from HIV to AIDS is now largely preventable with modern antiretroviral therapy (ART).

Modes of Transmission and Prevention

• The virus is transmitted through specific bodily fluids: blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk.
• Effective prevention strategies include consistent condom use, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) medication for at-risk individuals, and the use of sterile injection equipment.
• Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U): A person with HIV who is on effective treatment and maintains an undetectable viral load cannot sexually transmit the virus.

Modern Outlook and Management

• HIV is now considered a manageable chronic health condition with proper, lifelong medical care.
• Early testing and diagnosis are critical for initiating treatment and maintaining long-term health.
• Ongoing research continues to advance treatment options and fuels the global pursuit of both therapeutic and preventive vaccines.