19.3

10 Questions

What is the primary difference between HIV and AIDS?

HIV is a virus, while AIDS is a condition caused by HIV.

Why do many people in the first stage of HIV infection not know they have HIV?

HIV in its first stage shows no symptoms.

How do opportunistic infections cause death in people with AIDS?

They exploit the weakened immune system and cause severe illness.

Why does having another STI increase the risk of contracting HIV?

STIs can create open sores and inflammation, making it easier for HIV to enter the body.

How does ART work to treat HIV/AIDS?

It suppresses the virus and prevents it from progressing to AIDS.

Which method of preventing HIV transmission through sexual activity is 100 percent effective?

Abstinence

Which of the following activities involves exchanging bodily fluids that carry HIV?

Sharing needles

What is one barrier that prevents people living with HIV from seeking treatment?

Fear of stigma and discrimination

Why is it important for people living with HIV to notify their sexual or needle-sharing partners?

To enable partners to seek testing and treatment

In what situations would people benefit most from PrEP and PEP?

High-risk sexual behavior or potential exposure to HIV

Study Notes

HIV/AIDS

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a bloodborne virus that infects and kills the body's immune cells, weakening the immune system.
AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is a health condition caused by the progression of HIV, where the immune system can no longer fight infections and diseases.

Key Facts about HIV/AIDS

Over 37 million people are living with HIV/AIDS worldwide.
Since the epidemic began, 35 million people have died from AIDS-related causes.
HIV can spread through blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk.
HIV transmission is most common among people ages 13-34.
One in seven people with HIV do not know they have it.

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)

AIDS is a health condition where the immune system can no longer fight infections and diseases.
Caused by the progression of HIV.
Can lead to severe opportunistic infections, which can result in early death.

Opportunistic Infections

Diseases that develop by taking advantage of a weakened immune system.
Can result in early death.

Signs and Symptoms of HIV/AIDS

Depend on how far HIV has progressed and whether it has developed into AIDS.
Stage 1: Acute HIV Infection (first signs and symptoms, usually minor and flu-like)
Stage 2: Latency (no symptoms, can last 10+ years)
Stage 3: Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS, severe damage to immune system)

HIV Transmission

Can be transmitted through:
- Injections with shared or unsterilized needles
- Sexual activity
- From parent to baby during childbirth or breastfeeding
- Exposure of open sores on skin, in the mouth, or on genitals to contaminated blood
Cannot be transmitted through:
- Kissing or hugging
- Mosquitoes
- Sharing food
- Shaking hands
- Coughing
- Using the same seat
- Spit, sweat, or feces

HIV Testing and Diagnosis

HIV testing is important for personal and community health.
Testing involves a blood test to examine for the presence of HIV antibodies.
Results usually become available in a few days.
Confidentiality of test results is protected by federal law (HIPAA).

Treatment for HIV/AIDS

Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) is a combination of medications that interferes with the reproduction of HIV.
Aim of ART is to reduce a person's viral load and stabilize the number of CD4 cells.
Start ART as soon as possible after an HIV diagnosis.
ART can reduce a person's viral load to the point HIV becomes undetectable.

HIV Prevention

Precautions to reduce the risk of transmission:
- Understand activities that can cause transmission
- Use a latex, polyurethane, or polyisoprene condom
- Avoid needle sharing
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a course of ART that can protect a person from contracting HIV.
Intended for people who have tested negative for HIV but have a high risk of contracting HIV.