HIV
Biology: Cambridge International GCSE Supplement, topic 16.6.1
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).
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.
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.