What is HIV & Aids

An estimated 25 million people have died since AIDS was first recognized in 1981, making it one of the deadliest epidemics in known history. The majority of HIV infections and AIDS deaths occur in the developing world, with Sub-Saharan Africa the worst affected region.

What is HIV?

HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It is a progressive virus that harms the body’s immune system, destroying healthy cells which fight infection. It enters the body through mucous and blood to blood contact. This includes blood, semen, vaginal fluid, pre-ejaculate, and breast milk. Although transmission of HIV usually occurs as a result of unprotected sex, it can also be spread through contaminated needles and medical equipment, and from an infected mother to her baby.

What is AIDS?

HIV is the virus which causes Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). It is ‘’Acquired” because the disease is not hereditary; ‘’Immunodeficiency” refers to a breakdown of the body’s defence system; “Syndrome” means a group of related disorders and symptoms. AIDS occurs when the body’s defence mechanisms are so weak it can no longer fight certain infections or cancers.

What are the symptoms of HIV and AIDS?

It is possible to live with HIV for many years without developing AIDS or any symptoms of the HIV infection. This makes it important for people to get tested regularly. The danger is that a person who does not know they are infected can spread the virus to other people through unprotected sex and other risky behaviour that directly expose other people to their blood, semen, breast milk, and other infectious bodily fluids. It is important to remember that HIV cannot be transmitted through casual contact.
As soon as HIV is contracted it starts to attack the immune system. The symptoms of an early HIV virus are comparable to other illnesses such as the flu. Click here for details of symptoms of HIV and AIDS.

People who have HIV and do not receive treatment are likely to develop AIDS within 10 years though however the time frame can vary from between 10-20 years.