HIV and AIDS. Signs and Symptoms - How easy HIV Transmits?

HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus, which attacks immune system cells, leading to immune deficiency over time. If untreated, it progresses to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).
Primary transmission methods include sexual contact, sharing needles, and from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
Early symptoms of HIV appear 2-4 weeks after infection and include fever, sore throat, fatigue, and a maculopapular rash.
The clinical latency phase can last up to 10 years without symptoms but during this time, the virus continues to replicate.
Untreated HIV leads to AIDS, where CD4+ T lymphocyte counts drop, and the immune system becomes severely weakened, leading to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.
Opportunistic infections, such as pneumocystis pneumonia, toxoplasmosis, and tuberculosis, are the leading causes of death in AIDS patients.
Modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) can control HIV, preventing its progression to AIDS and allowing people to live nearly normal lives.
There is no cure for HIV, but ART reduces viral load, making it undetectable and lowering the risk of transmission.
Functional cures like the Berlin patient are rare and involve bone marrow transplants from CCR5 mutation donors, which naturally resist HIV.
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) reduces the risk of HIV infection by nearly 99% for people at high risk.
Disclaimer:
This information is provided for general knowledge and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your doctor for any questions or concerns you may have about your health.