HIV and AIDS are significant infectious diseases that affect the immune system. After entering the body, HIV targets immune cells and weakens the system over time; if left untreated, it can progress to the AIDS stage.
What is HIV?
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that targets the immune system. After entering the body, it begins to destroy specifically the immune cells. If left untreated, the immune system weakens over time. This leaves the body vulnerable to infections and certain types of cancer.
What is AIDS?
AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the advanced stage of HIV infection. Not every person carrying HIV reaches the AIDS stage. With early diagnosis and correct treatment, people living with HIV can lead a long and healthy life.
What Causes HIV / AIDS?
HIV is caused by the virus entering the body. This virus cannot survive for long in the external environment, but it can be transmitted from person to person.
After the virus enters the body, it weakens the immune system, reduces the body's power to fight infections, and if left untreated, can progress to the AIDS stage.
How is HIV Transmitted?
-Unprotected Sexual Intercourse: The most common way HIV is transmitted is through unprotected sexual intercourse. Vaginal, anal, or oral sex without using a condom poses a risk.
-Blood Route: It can be transmitted through shared syringe use, non-sterile medical equipment, and uncontrolled blood transfusions.
-Mother-to-Baby Transmission: A mother carrying HIV can transmit the virus to her baby during pregnancy, during birth, and through breastfeeding.
How is HIV Not Transmitted?
HIV is not transmitted through situations such as shaking hands, hugging, being in the same environment, using the same plate or glass, sharing toilets, pools or showers, or mosquito or insect bites.
What are the Symptoms of HIV?
HIV may not show symptoms in the early period. However, in some individuals, symptoms such as fever, fatigue, sore throat, flu-like symptoms, swelling in the lymph nodes, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss may be seen.
In the advanced stage, which is the AIDS phase, symptoms such as frequent infections, prolonged fever, and the weakening of the immune system may emerge.
How is HIV Diagnosed?
HIV diagnosis is made through blood tests and rapid HIV tests.
Is There a Treatment for HIV?
HIV is not a disease that can be completely cured; however, thanks to the treatment methods used today, the virus can be suppressed, reduced to undetectable levels in the blood, and the rate of contagiousness can decrease.
What are the Ways to Prevent HIV?
-Protected sexual intercourse (condom use)
-Use of disposable and sterile syringes
-Getting regular tests
-Protective treatment in risky situations
