@adioleogechi: What is HIV? HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, especially the CD4 cells (T-helper cells) which help the body fight infections. When HIV destroys many of these cells, the body becomes weak and unable to fight infections and diseases effectively. If HIV is not treated, it can progress to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, which is the most advanced stage of the infection. How HIV Can Be Transmitted? HIV is transmitted through certain body fluids from an infected person, such as: 1. Unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person. 2. Sharing contaminated needles or syringes (e.g., drug injection). 3.Transfusion of infected blood or blood products. 4. From mother to child during: * Pregnancy * Childbirth * Breastfeeding 5. Occupational exposure (e.g., accidental needle stick injury among health workers). 6. Body fluids that can transmit HIV include: * Blood * Semen * Vaginal fluids * Rectal fluids * Breast milk HIV cannot be transmitted through: * Hugging or handshakes * Sharing food or plates * Mosquito bites * Tears or sweat How HIV Affects the Immune System HIV enters the bloodstream. It attacks CD4 cells, which are important immune cells. The virus multiplies inside these cells. The infected cells are destroyed. Over time, the CD4 count drops, weakening the immune system. When the immune system becomes very weak, the person becomes vulnerable to opportunistic infections such as: *Tuberculosis, * Severe pneumonia, * Certain cancers, * Persistent infections. Treatment of HIV The main treatment for HIV is called Antiretroviral Therapy (ART). ART works by: * Stopping the virus from multiplying, * Protecting the immune system, * Reducing the viral load to very low levels. Benefits of treatment: People with HIV can live long and healthy lives. It prevents progression to AIDS. It reduces the risk of transmitting HIV to others. NOTE: Key Message (Health Education): HIV is not a death sentence. With early testing and proper treatment, people living with HIV can live a normal and productive life. #fypシ゚viral #medicaleducation #healthcare

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Thursday 12 March 2026 19:16:54 GMT