Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Definition:
it harms your immune system by destroying white blood cells that fight infection.

It occurs during sex and Injecting used needles. The most affected are gay or bisexual people and Injection drug users.

Risk Factors

• Having a sexually transmitted infection (STI), such as herpes or gonorrhea
• Engaging in unprotected anal, vaginal, or oral sex, especially with multiple partners or anonymous partners
• Having sex in exchange for drugs or money
• Sharing needles and other equipment for injecting drugs

Signs and Symptoms:
fever, chills, rash, night sweats, muscle aches, sore throat, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, mouth ulcers (takes 2 to 4 weeks to appear)

To diagnose HIV, you test your blood or saliva
Treatment is by using antiretroviral medications to stop the virus from replicating

You can die in 10 years without treatment and you will always have a weak immune system

Prevention

• Use condoms
• Get tested
• Don't abuse or use alcohol or drugs
• Limit sex partners

Planned Parenthood has a counseling service for HIV and you can get tested there. If you get diagnosed with HIV you can still lead a normal life.

Work Cited

• https://medlineplus.gov/hivaids.html
• https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/hivaids/who-risk-hi...
• https://www.everydayhealth.com/hiv/guide/transmission/
• https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hiv-and-aids/treatment/
• https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/stds-hiv-safer-sex/hiv-aids/should-...