HIV attacks the body’s immune system, leaving sufferers susceptible to develop opportunistic infections. Infection with HIV may eventually develop into Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), for which there is currently no cure.
HIV is transmitted through contact with contaminated blood or body fluids by routes such as unprotected sex, sharing needles, receiving infected blood in a transfusion, or transmission from mother to baby.
When HIV enters the body, general flu-like symptoms are common. Once these clear, most people do not show symptoms for many years. The virus, however, continues to spread, and can still be passed on. If left untreated, HIV eventually overloads the immune system and develops into AIDS.
A combination of antiretroviral drugs are given to suppress the activity of the virus and delay the progression to AIDS.
HIV can be prevented by avoiding contact with contaminated body fluids, and always wearing a condom during sex can help prevent infection.
