[Photo/Odyseey]
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is the virus that causes Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Millions of people around the world are infected with the disease.
HIV can be transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing intravenous needles, contaminated blood transfusions, from mother to child during pregnancy, delivery or breastfeeding, and exposure to infected body fluids or tissues.
The AIDS virus attacks the immune system. It disables the white blood cells which are responsible for fighting diseases. After the immune system weakens, an individual becomes vulnerable to diseases like tuberculosis, pneumonia and some types of cancer.
HIV can be prevented through practicing safe sex, not sharing needles or syringes and being careful with the kind of hospital you choose to get a blood transfusion at.
The AIDS virus is not transmitted through saliva, tears, sneezes or non-sexual contact. In fact, the AIDS virus is so fragile that it dies almost immediately when exposed to open air.
It's important to know your HIV status by being tested. This is especially necessary when you haven't practiced safe sex or are involved in sexual relations with multiple partners.
Though there is no known cure, antiretroviral treatment reduces the risk of death and complications from the disease.
Man with full blown AIDS
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