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What is the Full form of HIV?
HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. This virus, if not diagnosed early, can further lead to the development of AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) in the body. Unlike some other viruses, this virus does not leave the body permanently, making it a lifelong disease.
This virus, originally found in non-human primates spread to humans over the centuries. Despite being so old, HIV was first diagnosed in the 1980s. Since then it has rapidly spread all over the world, leading to the deaths of over 32 million people to date.
Spreading of HIV
The virus of HIV needs an incubation period of about 10 years before it can start affecting the immune system of a person. Fighting against diseases becomes difficult as HIV breaks down a specific group of WBC and T-helper cells (CD4 cells). It then makes copies of itself within these cells. Following are some ways in which HIV infection transmits:
- Unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person.
- Reusing needles used by an infected.
- Genetic transmission from a mother to the child.
- Blood transfusion.
Symptoms of HIV
Following are some symptoms of HIV:
- Fever
- Chills
- Skin rash
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Swollen glands
- Joint pain
- Sore throat
- Upset stomach
HIV prevention methods
- Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay (ELISA) test can help detect HIV infection.
- Spreading awareness regarding AIDS.
- No sharing of personal items like razors, toothbrushes, syringes, etc. with others.