AIDS

The structure of HIV

A Computer generated image of HIV exiting a cell

       AIDS, acquired immune deficiency syndrome in full, is the medical condition which is resulted from the infection of retrovirus HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), that destroys the immune system of the body. Once the virus attacks, it begins to destroy some types of white blood cell gradually leaving the victim more and more vulnerable to many other infections that ultimately lead to death. But the complete symptoms of AIDS may not develop for more than 10 years after infection.

Electron Micrograph of an HIV particle

          HIV has certain modes of transmissions. It transmits largely through sexual intercourse with an infected partner. HW transmissions also occur through medical transfusions of infected blood. But the case is now quite rare because of careful screening of blood supply. It also transmits from an infected mother to her baby who can inherit the virus before or during labour, or through suckling of breasts. But now the baby can be protected almost completely- through medical care. A large number of cases of transmissions are accounted for intravenous use of drugs where there are great chances of sharing infected needles. Because HW cannot survive when exposed to the environment, transmission does not occur through non-sexual contacts and communalities.

Immunology laboratory in Mozambique

          The symptoms of HIV infection are observed over three main stages. In the first three weeks, the infected person experiences flu-like symptoms that may include fever, headache, skin rash, tender lumps, and malaise. In this stage, HW multiplies very actively. It circulates through the blood and all body tissues. The second stage is the period of as

as 10 years or more, of no clear symptoms during which the patient feels healthy, though the virus is destroying the immune system. The end stage is characterized by neurological’ complications, progressing fatigue and dramatic weight I along with opportunistic infections and cancer that cause death.

Electron micrograph image of cell producing HIV

          AIDS was first detected in Africa in 1983. It has been, rapidly spreading ever since throughout the world. Over 2 million people are estimated to have died from AIDS worldwide by the start of this millennium. Approximately 40,000 Americans are estimated to be newly infected with HIV each year though there are intensive efforts on to control transmissions. At least one third of the adult population is now infected in sub-Saharan countries such as Botswana, Swaziland and Zimbabwe. Infection rates are currently rising fastest in Eastern Europe Central Asia. There are also rapidly growing epidemics in China,1 with 1 million HIV-positive people, and in India with 4 million., In Nepal more than 100000 people are supposed to be living with HIV infection. The infection is growing due to various factors such as girl trafficking, prostitution, lack of awareness tourism development and drug addiction.

Access to antiretroviral treatment in Botswana

          The epidemic has serious effects on individuals, families and societies. The governments have pressure to care for the infected as well as their dependants who are often y’’ children and elderly people. The economic development I obstructed due to lack of manpower and capital. AIDS is not curable but it is preventable. It can be prevented largely by developing safe sex behaviour and using of safe blood and sterilized needles. Awareness is all the more important.

A red ribbon

The red ribbon is an international symbol of AIDS awareness during 1991. The organisation, Visual AIDS in New York, together with Broadway Cares and Equity Fights AIDS, established the wearing of a red ribbon as a way of signifying support for people living with HIV/AIDS.