16.6.1

HIV

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Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections transmitted via body fluids through sexual contact. An example of an STI is human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

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HIV and AIDS

  • The HIV virus can leads to a disease called AIDS.
  • The immune systems of people with AIDS is damaged so badly that it cannot deal with other infections that the body encounters.
  • HIV causes AIDS when the HIV virus enters the lymph nodes and attacks the immune system, causing;
    • Decreased numbers of lymphocytes (white blood cells).
    • Reduced ability to make antibodies.
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Preventing spread

  • HIV is spread by having anal or vaginal sex without condoms with someone who has HIV, or by the exchange of body fluids (like blood) blood from sharing needles or syringes, and can be passed from mother to baby in birth.
  • The spread of HIV can be prevented by using condoms.
  • People with HIV can be given antiretroviral drugs to prevent them developing AIDS.

Jump to other topics

1Classification of Living Organisms

2Organisation of the Organism

3Movement Into & Out of Cells

4Biological Molecules

5Enzymes

6Plant Nutrition

7Human Nutrition

8Transport in Plants

9Transport in Animals

10Diseases & Immunity

11Gas Exchange in Humans

12Respiration

13Excretion in Humans

14Coordination & Response

15Drugs

16Reproduction

17Inheritance

18Variation & Selection

19Organisms & Their Environment

20Human Influence on Ecosystems

21Biotechnology & Genetic Modification

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