World AIDS Day 2023: Unveiling the Global Threat of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a serious and persistent global health threat, primarily caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). This disease demands increased awareness to educate individuals about AIDS and promote preventive measures. Every year, December 1st is observed as World AIDS Day to raise awareness and alert people about the risks and precautions associated with this potentially life-threatening illness. While AIDS is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, other factors can also contribute to the risk.
Recognizing HIV Infection and AIDS: How to Tell?
Confirming HIV infection or AIDS requires a blood test, although some symptoms can also indicate the presence of the disease. In some individuals infected with HIV, flu-like symptoms may develop within 2 to 4 weeks of the virus entering the body. Fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, throat irritation, mouth sores, and weight loss are considered early signs of the disease.
These symptoms may be subtle initially, going unnoticed by individuals. However, as time progresses, there is an increased risk of the disease and symptoms becoming more severe due to rising viral load in the blood.
Who Is at Risk of AIDS?
Engaging in unprotected sexual relations, especially with individuals who are already infected, poses a risk of contracting HIV. Additionally, sharing contaminated needles and receiving blood from an infected person during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding can transmit the infection to babies. Though efforts are made to reduce the risk through HIV testing during pregnancy, the danger persists.
Understanding AIDS: A Consequence of HIV Infection
As mentioned earlier, AIDS is a consequence of infection with the HIV virus. By compromising the immune system’s ability to combat infections and diseases, the HIV virus makes the body susceptible to various illnesses. Apart from sexually transmitted infections (STIs), the virus can also spread through infected blood transfer and the use of contaminated needles.
Skin Damage in AIDS: How Does It Manifest?
Due to weakened immunity caused by HIV/AIDS, individuals become more susceptible to various skin disorders. Skin damage in AIDS patients can manifest as bacterial, fungal, or viral infections. Bacterial infections such as Candida infection, Toxoplasmosis, and Protozoa infection are common in individuals with AIDS.
Managing Skin Disorders in HIV/AIDS Patients
Due to weakened immunity, individuals with HIV/AIDS are sensitive to diseases and infections, including skin disorders. Skin infections caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microbes can be managed through available treatments. HIV is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, and if left untreated, it can lead to AIDS.
It’s important to note that there is currently no cure for HIV, but it can be managed for a long and healthy life. The only way to determine if you are HIV positive is through testing. The main HIV tests include antibody tests, antigen/antibody tests, and nucleic acid tests (NAT).
Preventing the Spread of HIV Infection
While there is no vaccine to prevent HIV infection, efforts must be made to stop the spread of the virus. HIV is not transmitted through casual contact, such as shaking hands, sneezing, or sharing meals with an infected person. Therefore, discrimination against such individuals should be avoided. Take precautions to protect yourself from this infectious disease and inspire others to do the same.
Note: This article is prepared based on information gathered from medical reports.
Disclaimer: All articles published in the Health and Fitness category on SSJPD.com are prepared based on discussions with doctors, specialists, and academic institutions. The facts and information mentioned in the article have been verified and checked by SSJPD.com’s professional journalists. SSJPD.com does not claim or take responsibility for the accuracy of the information provided in the article. For more information about the relevant disease mentioned in this article, consult your doctor.