10.1.3

HIV

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HIV/AIDS

As a viral disease, HIV/AIDS cannot be treated with antibiotics as the virus uses the cells of the host for replication.

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Pathogen

  • Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is the virus that causes the infection HIV.
  • The initial infection causes flu-like symptoms, such as high temperatures and fatigue.
  • HIV attacks CD-4 cells of the human immune system. Infections become progressively more difficult to fight.
  • The body forms antibodies against HIV. They do not prevent the disease from progressing. Detection of anti-HIV antibodies is diagnostic.
  • Without treatment, HIV sufferers may develop Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), which is a life-threatening condition.
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Treatment

  • Antiretroviral drugs are used to prevent the multiplication of the virus inside the body, but so far there is no cure for the disease.
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Transmission and prevention

  • Transmission of HIV is via direct contact with infected bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk.
  • With no vaccine currently available, prevention relies on:
    • Promoting awareness of risks and how to reduce them.
      • By using condoms during sex, getting tested regularly and not sharing needles.
    • Identifying infection early.
      • This process includes screening donated blood.
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Distribution

  • Over 90% of HIV infections are in developing countries, the majority of which are in sub-Saharan Africa.

Jump to other topics

1Cell Structure

2Biological Molecules

3Enzymes

4Cell Membranes & Transport

5The Mitotic Cell Cycle

6Nucleic Acids & Protein Synthesis

7Transport in Plants

8Transport in Mammals

9Gas Exchange

10Infectious Diseases

11Immunity

12Energy & Respiration (A2 Only)

13Photosynthesis (A2 Only)

14Homeostasis (A2 Only)

15Control & Coordination (A2 Only)

16Inherited Change (A2 Only)

17Selection & Evolution (A2 Only)

18Classification & Conservation (A2 Only)

19Genetic Technology (A2 Only)

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