HIV/AIDS

HIV is a virus that destroys the immune system; thus, making it difficult for the body to fight off infections. It kills CD 4 which prevents the body from diseases. Untreated HIV is the leading cause of AIDS which is a deadly disease. HIV can be spread through bodily fluids such as blood. HIV is a virus that damages the immune system. The immune system helps the body fight off, breast milk, vaginal and rectal fluids among others. However, the disease does not spread through physical contact. Currently, it is one of the killer diseases across the globe. The condition has no cure even though the scientist is trying to look for one. Therefore, the disease can be managed through treatment and eating a healthy diet.

HIV has several characteristics that can be easily be seen by those who suffer from the disease. Some of these signs comprise of rapid weight loss. Those who suffer from the infection can begin decreasing their weight within a short duration. Secondly, they may experience fevers and sweat a lot during the night. This is even though the weather might be reasonable in some of these instances(Hearley,2011). Besides, the patients can also experience extreme tiredness most of the time. As a result, their productivity can drastically decrease. Another sign is prolonged swelling of the neck, armpits and the lymph glands. This might make them experience a lot of pain in these parts.

In some cases, an individual can experience prolonged diarrhea for more than one week. However, this symptom can begin to be encountered when the situation becomes more chronic. Additionally, the sick individual can experience sores in the genitals, mouth and even the anus.

HIV attacks and destroys the immune system which makes the body prone to infections. This occurs one the defense mechanism becomes weak. It also leads to AIDs during the later stages of the disease. This means that various illnesses can find their way into the human body. Secondly, HIV can make the body weaker, and a person might become less productive. HIV can also lead to depression. It is because the patient might not be ready to accept and move on with his or her condition. This can result in mental problems in the human body.

Structure

HIV has a diverse structure from other retroviruses. It is estimated that HIV virion is approximately 100 nm in diameter. Its internal part consists of a cone-shaped core that comprises of minor protein,and enzymes reverse transcriptase, main core protein, and protease. On the other hand, Poliovirus Structureis small in size and are estimated to be about 300 angstroms in diameter. They contain a single-stranded positive-sense RNA genome and the icosahedral protein coat. This arrangement is demonstrated in the diagram below.

Pathogenicity of the disease

HIV can be transmitted in several ways. However, the most common method is through sexual intercourse. Another method is via breastfeeding which is common among women who have babies. Besides, blood transfusion and sharing of sharp objects like razor blades and needles can also result in the spread of this virus. Finally, the sharing of toothbrushes is also dangerous as it can cause the infection. Therefore, people must be vigilant to ensure that they are not infected.

Stages

HIV has three stages of infection. During the first phase, a person is likely to experience flu. Step two is where other symptoms like diarrhea and sores in the mouth and other private parts are experienced. The last stage is characterized by the damaging of the immune system. This can eventually lead to death as the body might not be able to fight diseases.

Diagnosis

One of the conventional approaches is the use of blood and saliva tests. People can also be tested in voluntary and counseling centers.

Prevention and treatment

HIV/AIDS can be prevented by avoiding sexual intercourse with infected individuals. Partners are advisable to go for testing before they engage in sex. Another way is by avoiding the sharing of a sharp object like razor blades and toothbrushes. Besides, people should only receive blood donations from people who are not infected with HIV.

Moreover, people should be sensitized on the dangers of HIV/AIDS (Bundy,2008). This can assist in changing the behaviors of people in society. One of the ways of treating the disease is through the use of medications such as ARVs. Additionally, individuals can eat a healthy diet to ensure that they do not decrease weight. Finally, the patients should attend guidance and counseling sessions to relieve depression. All these measures might not cure the disease, but it can assist to improve the condition of an individual.

Vaccine development

Creating vaccines for HIV/.AIDS has been a significant challenge over the years. This is because the virus targets the immune system. Therefore, even if it is developed, the body will still be attacked by other infections.

Outcomes

The results of the research could be different if the diagnosis were made in advance. This is because the chronic effects of the disease could have been dealt with. As a result, this could assist in controlling the adverse effects of the disease.

References

Bundy, D. (2008). Strengthening the education sector response to HIV & AIDS in the Caribbean. Washington, D.C.: World Bank.

Healey, J. (2011). HIV and AIDS.Thirroul, N.S.W.: Spinney Press.

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