viH

VIH, known in English as human immunodeficiency virus, is a lentivirus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically CD4+ T cells. If untreated, HIV infection gradually weakens the immune system and can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).

Transmission occurs through certain body fluids: blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk. Common routes include unprotected sexual contact, sharing contaminated needles, and from mother to child during pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding. HIV is not spread through casual contact such as hugging, sharing utensils, or coughing.

Two major groups exist: HIV-1 and HIV-2. HIV-1 is the global majority; HIV-2 is less transmissible and largely confined to West Africa. Pathogenesis involves binding to the CD4 receptor and co-receptors CCR5 or CXCR4, leading to progressive immune dysfunction.

Diagnosis relies on tests for HIV antibodies and/or antigens, often combined with nucleic acid testing. There is a window period after infection before tests become positive, so repeat testing may be recommended.

Treatment consists of antiretroviral therapy (ART), using combinations of medicines to suppress viral replication. With effective ART, the viral load can become undetectable, allowing immune recovery and a near-normal life expectancy. ART also reduces the risk of transmission to others.

Prevention includes safer sex practices, sterile needle programs, and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for people at high risk, as well as post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) after potential exposure.

No licensed HIV vaccine exists as of now; research continues. A functioning cure remains elusive, but advances in long-term suppression have transformed HIV into a manageable chronic condition for many people.