HIVsýking

HIVsýking, or HIV infection, is a chronic, potentially life-threatening condition caused by the human immunodeficiency virus. HIV is a retrovirus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells, which are crucial for fighting off infections. If left untreated, HIV can progress to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), the most severe stage of the infection, characterized by a severely damaged immune system and the emergence of opportunistic infections and cancers.

HIV is primarily transmitted through specific bodily fluids, including blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid, rectal fluids, vaginal fluids, and breast milk, from an HIV-positive person. Common modes of transmission include unprotected sexual contact, sharing of needles or syringes, and from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. HIV is not transmitted through casual contact such as hugging, kissing, or sharing utensils.

Early symptoms of HIV infection can be flu-like and may include fever, chills, rash, night sweats, muscle aches, sore throat, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, or ulcers. However, many individuals experience no symptoms for years. Diagnosis is typically made through blood or saliva tests.

While there is no cure for HIV, effective treatments are available. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a combination of HIV medicines that reduces the amount of the virus in the body to undetectable levels. With consistent ART, people with HIV can live long, healthy lives, and the virus cannot be transmitted sexually to an HIV-negative partner. Prevention strategies include safe sex practices, such as consistent condom use, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and avoiding sharing needles.