About HIV, Stigma, People Living with HIV, Transmission, Prevention, Diagnosis
Different Insights From Different Perspectives
Global Overview of HIV/AIDS
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) continues to be a significant global public health issue, having claimed an estimated 42.3 million lives to date. Transmission persists in all countries worldwide.
Current Statistics
As of the end of 2023, approximately 39.9 million people were living with HIV, with 65% residing in the WHO African Region. In the same year, an estimated 630,000 individuals died from HIV-related causes, and 1.3 million people acquired HIV.
Transmission Routes
HIV is primarily transmitted through:
- Unprotected sexual intercourse (anal or vaginal)
- Transfusion of contaminated blood
- Sharing of contaminated needles
- Transmission from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding
It is important to note that HIV cannot be transmitted through casual contact such as hugging, kissing, or sharing personal objects, food, or water.
Prevention Strategies
Effective strategies to prevent HIV transmission include:
- Practicing safe sexual behaviours, such as consistent and correct use of condoms
- Undergoing testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Accessing harm reduction services for people who inject drugs
- Undergoing voluntary medical male circumcision
- Utilizing antiretroviral drug-based prevention methods, including pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)
Ensuring access to these prevention options is crucial for individuals at higher risk of HIV infection.
Treatment and Care
HIV infection is managed using antiretroviral therapy (ART), which, when taken consistently, suppresses viral replication. This suppression allows the immune system to recover and strengthens, reducing the risk of opportunistic infections and certain cancers. By the end of 2022, 29.8 million people living with HIV were receiving ART globally.
Global Health Sector Strategies
The World Health Organization (WHO) has developed a Global Health Sector Strategy on HIV for 2022–2030, aiming to:
- Reduce new HIV infections
- Decrease HIV-related deaths
- Eliminate HIV-related stigma and discrimination
These goals align with the United Nations General Assembly’s 2021 Political Declaration on HIV and AIDS and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly the target to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
References
- World Health Organization. HIV and AIDS.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells), which are crucial for immune defense. If left untreated, HIV can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), the most severe phase of HIV infection, characterized by a significantly weakened immune system and increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells), which can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) if not treated. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the cornerstone of HIV treatment, involving the use of HIV medicines to reduce the viral load, maintain immune function, and prevent transmission.
Transmission of HIV
HIV is transmitted through contact with certain body fluids from a person who has HIV. These fluids include blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid, rectal fluids, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. The primary modes of transmission are:
- Unprotected Sexual Contact: Engaging in vaginal or anal sex without using condoms or taking preventive HIV medications increases the risk of transmission.
- Sharing Needles: Using contaminated needles or syringes for injecting drugs can facilitate the spread of HIV.
- Mother-to-Child Transmission: An HIV-positive mother can transmit the virus to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
It’s important to note that HIV is not spread through casual contact such as hugging, shaking hands, or sharing personal objects, food, or water.
Prevention
Preventive measures are essential in reducing the spread of HIV. These include safe sex practices, regular testing, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for high-risk individuals, and harm reduction strategies for intravenous drug users.
Prevention Strategies
Preventing HIV involves several effective strategies:
- Consistent and Correct Condom Use: Using condoms during sexual activity significantly reduces the risk of HIV transmission.
- Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): For individuals at high risk, taking HIV medicines daily can lower the chance of getting infected.
- Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): Taking HIV medicines within 72 hours after a potential exposure can prevent the virus from taking hold.
- Regular Testing and Counseling: Knowing one’s HIV status and that of partners helps in making informed decisions and reduces risk behaviors.
- Avoiding Shared Needles: Not sharing needles or syringes is crucial in preventing transmission among people who inject drugs.
Implementing these preventive measures has been shown to be highly effective in reducing the spread of HIV.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that targets and impairs the immune system, diminishing the body’s capacity to combat daily infections and diseases. Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) refers to a spectrum of potentially life-threatening infections and illnesses that manifest when the immune system has been severely compromised by HIV.
Symptoms of HIV Infection
Within 2 to 6 weeks post-infection, many individuals experience a brief, flu-like illness lasting approximately one to two weeks. Following this phase, HIV may remain asymptomatic for several years, continuously undermining the immune system. Consequently, numerous individuals with HIV are unaware of their infection status.
Causes of HIV Infection
HIV resides in specific bodily fluids, including semen, vaginal and anal secretions, blood, and breast milk. The virus is fragile and does not survive long outside the human body. Transmission does not occur through sweat, urine, or saliva. In the UK, the predominant transmission route is unprotected anal or vaginal intercourse. Additional transmission methods encompass:
- Sharing needles, syringes, or other injecting apparatus.
- Mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
The likelihood of acquiring HIV through oral sex is minimal and contingent upon various factors, such as the nature of the act and the oral health of the individual performing it.
Diagnosing HIV
If exposure to HIV is suspected, it is imperative to seek medical attention promptly. Testing services are available at general practitioner (GP) surgeries, sexual health clinics, and clinics operated by charitable organizations. HIV testing involves analyzing a blood or saliva sample for indications of the virus. Early diagnosis facilitates timely treatment initiation, enhancing the prospects of managing the virus, reducing the risk of severe illness, and minimizing the potential of transmitting the virus to others.
Global Impact
As of recent data, approximately 38 million people worldwide are living with HIV. The epidemic continues to have a significant impact, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Global efforts, including education, prevention, and treatment programs, aim to reduce the incidence and prevalence of HIV/AIDS.
Stigma and Discrimination
Despite advancements in treatment and prevention, individuals living with HIV often face stigma and discrimination. This can lead to social isolation, mental health issues, and reluctance to seek care. Addressing stigma is essential for effective HIV prevention and treatment efforts.
Conclusion
Understanding HIV, its transmission, prevention, and treatment is crucial in combating the epidemic. Continued education, testing, and access to medical care are vital components in the global response to HIV/AIDS.
References
Diagnosis of HIV/AIDS
Early detection of HIV is crucial for effective management. Diagnostic methods include:
- Antigen-Antibody Tests: These tests most often use blood from a vein. Antigens are substances on the HIV virus itself. They most often show up in the blood within a few weeks after being exposed to HIV.
Mayo Clinic - Antibody Tests: These tests detect antibodies produced by the immune system in response to HIV infection. They are commonly used and can identify HIV typically within 23 to 90 days after exposure.
Mayo Clinic - Nucleic Acid Tests (NATs): These tests detect the virus itself and can identify HIV infection as early as 10 to 33 days after exposure. They are more expensive and typically used when recent exposure or early symptoms are present.
Mayo Clinic
Routine screening is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for individuals aged 13 to 64 and for those at higher risk, such as individuals with multiple sexual partners or those who use intravenous drugs.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that targets and destroys CD4+ T-cells, which are crucial components of the immune system. This progressive depletion of CD4+ T-cells impairs the body’s ability to combat infections and diseases. If left untreated, HIV infection can advance to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), the most severe phase of HIV infection, characterized by a significantly weakened immune system and increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.
Transmission of HIV
HIV is primarily transmitted through contact with specific bodily fluids from an individual who has the virus. The main routes of transmission include:
- Unprotected Sexual Contact: Engaging in vaginal, anal, or oral sex without using condoms or other barrier methods can facilitate the transmission of HIV.
- Sharing Needles: Utilizing needles or syringes contaminated with HIV-infected blood, often associated with intravenous drug use, poses a significant risk.
- Mother-to-Child Transmission: An HIV-positive mother can transmit the virus to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
- Blood Transfusions: Receiving blood transfusions or organ transplants from HIV-infected donors, although rigorous screening has substantially reduced this risk.
Symptoms of HIV Infection
The progression of HIV infection can be categorized into several stages, each with distinct symptoms:
- Acute HIV Infection: Within 2 to 4 weeks post-exposure, individuals may experience flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills, rash, night sweats, muscle aches, sore throat, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and mouth ulcers. This phase is also known as acute retroviral syndrome (ARS).
- Chronic HIV Infection (Clinical Latency Stage): During this phase, the virus continues to multiply at low levels, and individuals may not exhibit symptoms. Without treatment, this stage can last a decade or longer, but some may progress faster.
- AIDS: As the immune system becomes severely damaged, individuals are susceptible to opportunistic infections and certain cancers. Symptoms may include rapid weight loss, recurring fever, prolonged swelling of lymph glands, diarrhea, sores, pneumonia, and memory loss.
Diagnosis of HIV
Early detection of HIV is crucial for effective management. Diagnostic methods include:
- Antibody Tests: Detect antibodies produced in response to HIV infection. These tests can be conducted using blood or oral fluid samples.
- Antigen/Antibody Tests: Identify both HIV antibodies and antigens (specifically the p24 antigen). These tests can detect HIV infection earlier than antibody-only tests.
- Nucleic Acid Tests (NATs): Detect the presence of HIV RNA in the blood. NATs are expensive and typically reserved for high-risk exposures or when early infection is suspected.
Treatment of HIV
While there is no cure for HIV, Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) has transformed HIV infection into a manageable chronic condition. ART involves a combination of HIV medicines that:
- Suppress Viral Replication: Reducing the viral load to undetectable levels.
- Restore and Preserve Immune Function: Allowing the immune system to recover and function effectively.
- Reduce HIV-related Morbidity and Mortality: Improving the quality of life and life expectancy of individuals living with HIV.
Adherence to ART is vital to prevent drug resistance and achieve optimal outcomes.
Prevention of HIV
Preventive strategies are essential in reducing the spread of HIV and include:
- Consistent and Correct Use of Condoms: Effectively reducing the risk of sexual transmission.
- Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): A daily medication for individuals at high risk of HIV, significantly lowering the chance of infection.
- Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): An emergency treatment started within 72 hours after potential exposure to HIV, consisting of antiretroviral medicines taken for 28 days.
- Harm Reduction Strategies: Such as needle exchange programs to decrease the risk among people who inject drugs.
- Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision (VMMC): Shown to reduce the risk of heterosexual men acquiring HIV.
Outlook for Individuals with HIV
With early diagnosis and consistent ART, individuals with HIV can lead long and healthy lives. Regular medical follow-ups, a healthy lifestyle, and adherence to treatment are crucial components of effective HIV management.
References
- Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). HIV & AIDS: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention. Retrieved from
- Wikipedia contributors. (2025,
Understanding HIV: An Overview
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells (T cells), which are crucial for immune defense. If left untreated, HIV can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), a severe condition characterized by a significant decline in immune function.
Transmission Pathways
HIV is primarily transmitted through contact with certain body fluids from an individual who has HIV. These fluids include blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid, rectal fluids, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. The most common routes of transmission are:
- Sexual Contact: Engaging in anal or vaginal sex without using condoms or taking preventive measures like PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis).
- Sharing Needles: Using needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment that has been previously used by someone with HIV.
It’s important to note that HIV is not spread through casual contact, such as hugging, shaking hands, or sharing dishes.
Prevention Strategies
Several effective strategies can significantly reduce the risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV:
- Consistent Condom Use: Using condoms correctly during every sexual encounter.
- PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis): Taking HIV prevention medications as prescribed for individuals at high risk.
- PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis): Taking HIV medicines within 72 hours after a possible exposure to prevent infection.
- Avoiding Shared Needles: Not sharing needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment.
For those living with HIV, adhering to antiretroviral therapy (ART) can achieve and maintain an undetectable viral load, effectively eliminating the risk of sexually transmitting the virus to HIV-negative partners.
Testing and Diagnosis
The only definitive way to determine HIV status is through testing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. Individuals with specific risk factors should consider more frequent testing. Early detection through testing enables timely initiation of treatment, improving health outcomes and reducing the risk of transmission.
Treatment Options
HIV treatment involves the use of antiretroviral therapy (ART), which consists of a combination of HIV medicines taken daily. ART cannot cure HIV but can control the virus, allowing individuals to live longer, healthier lives. Starting ART as soon as possible after diagnosis is crucial for optimal health outcomes.
Living with HIV
With proper medical care and adherence to ART, people with HIV can lead long, healthy lives. Maintaining regular medical appointments, monitoring viral load and CD4 counts, and adopting a healthy lifestyle are essential components of effective HIV management.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About HIV. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/about/index.html
HIV/AIDS: An Overview
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that attacks the immune system, leading to a spectrum of conditions collectively known as HIV/AIDS. Without treatment, HIV can progress to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), characterized by a significant decline in immune function and increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.
Transmission and Prevention
HIV is primarily transmitted through unprotected sexual contact, sharing of contaminated needles, blood transfusions, and from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. Preventive measures include practicing safe sex, utilizing pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), and harm reduction strategies for individuals who inject drugs. Additionally, antiretroviral therapy (ART) for those infected reduces the risk of transmission.
Treatment and Prognosis
While there is no cure or vaccine for HIV, antiretroviral therapy can effectively manage the infection, allowing individuals to lead long and healthy lives. Early diagnosis and initiation of ART are crucial in preventing disease progression and reducing transmission risk.
Global Impact
Since its recognition in the early 1980s, HIV/AIDS has caused over 42 million deaths worldwide. As of 2023, approximately 39.9 million people are living with HIV, with 65% residing in the World Health Organization African Region. The epidemic has had profound social, economic, and cultural impacts globally.
References
- World Health Organization. (2023). HIV/AIDS: Fact Sheet. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hiv-aids
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). About HIV/AIDS. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/about/index.html
- Wikipedia contributors. (2023). HIV/AIDS. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HIV/AIDS
Recent Developments in HIV Prevention and Treatment
Recent advancements in HIV research have led to the development of new medications that significantly aid in both the prevention and treatment of HIV infections. However, it’s crucial to distinguish between drugs that prevent HIV infection and those that treat existing infections.
Lenacapavir: A Preventive Measure, Not a Cure
Lenacapavir, developed by Gilead Sciences, is a long-acting injectable drug that has shown high efficacy in preventing HIV infections. Clinical trials have demonstrated its potential as a pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), offering a preventive option for individuals at risk of contracting HIV. Notably, lenacapavir has been found to be 100% effective in preventing HIV among cisgender women and has reduced infections by 96% in a diverse group of cisgender men and gender-diverse individuals.
Despite its effectiveness in prevention, lenacapavir is not a cure for AIDS. Currently, there is no cure for AIDS, except in rare cases involving complex and risky stem cell transplants performed in the context of cancer treatment. Lenacapavir’s role is primarily in prevention and, when used in combination with other medications, in the treatment of HIV, but it does not eradicate the virus from those already infected.
Global Accessibility Initiatives
To enhance global access to lenacapavir, Gilead Sciences has entered into royalty-free licensing agreements with six generic drug manufacturers. These agreements aim to produce and distribute more affordable versions of lenacapavir in 120 low and lower-middle-income countries, thereby expanding the availability of this preventive treatment to regions heavily impacted by HIV.
Conclusion
While lenacapavir represents a significant advancement in HIV prevention and treatment, it is not a cure for AIDS. Ongoing research and development are essential to address the complexities of HIV and to move closer to finding a definitive cure.
References
- Reuters Fact Check. “HIV drug prevents infections, but not a new ‘cure’ for AIDS.” December 9, 2024.
- “Gilead signs deals with 6 generic drugmakers to sell HIV drug in low-income countries.” October 2, 2024.
reuters.com
Community Engagement and Governance
A key component of the MHCC’s mission is the integration of community perspectives into HIV cure research. The consortium’s Community Advisory Board (CAB) ensures that the voices of people living with HIV are represented in research initiatives, fostering meaningful advancements in treatment strategies.
Funding and Research Initiatives
The MHCC has been proactive in supporting innovative research through its grants scheme, offering Victorian researchers opportunities to contribute to the global effort in finding an HIV cure. Additionally, the consortium has been part of international collaborations, such as the Delaney AIDS Research Enterprise to Cure HIV (DARE), which received substantial funding to further research into HIV cure strategies.
Community Outreach and Education
To bridge the gap between scientific research and the community, the MHCC organizes events like “HIV Cure Research: Science for Community,” showcasing ongoing research and fostering dialogue between scientists and the public.
Conclusion
The Melbourne HIV Cure Consortium exemplifies a comprehensive approach to HIV cure research, combining scientific expertise with community engagement to advance toward a world free of HIV/AIDS.
References