by Aejaz Iqbal
HIV is a life-threatening virus that weakens the immune system, leading to AIDS if untreated. Early diagnosis, regular monitoring, and treatment adherence can help manage the condition and prevent its progression.
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a chronic, potentially life-threatening condition caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). This virus weakens the immune system, impairing the body’s ability to fight infections and diseases.
Diagnosis of HIV
HIV can be diagnosed through blood or saliva tests. There are different types of tests available. Antigen/antibody tests are typically conducted by drawing blood from a vein. These tests detect antigens, which are substances in HIV, and antibodies, which are produced by the immune system when it encounters HIV. Antigens are usually detectable within a few weeks after exposure, while antibodies may take longer to appear, generally two to six weeks after exposure.
Another common test is the antibody test, which detects antibodies to HIV in blood or saliva. Rapid HIV tests, including self-tests, are antibody tests. These tests can take anywhere from three to twelve weeks to produce a positive result after exposure.
Nucleic Acid Tests (NATs) are another type of test. They look for the virus itself in the blood, measuring the viral load. If there has been potential exposure within the past few weeks, a doctor may recommend a NAT, as this test is the first to show a positive result after exposure.
If you are considering an HIV test, it is important to discuss with your doctor which test is most appropriate for you. Negative results may sometimes require follow-up tests over several weeks or months to confirm the outcome.
Monitoring and Treatment of HIV
Once diagnosed with HIV, it is essential to consult a specialist trained in HIV care to determine whether additional testing is needed, choose the most suitable antiretroviral therapy (ART), and monitor your health progress. If you are diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, there are several tests your doctor may use to assess the stage of your disease and help guide treatment decisions.
A CD4 T cell count is one of the key tests. CD4 T cells are white blood cells that HIV targets and destroys. Even if you do not show symptoms, the progression to AIDS occurs when your CD4 T cell count drops below 200.
Viral load, which measures the amount of HIV in your blood, is another important test. After starting HIV treatment, the goal is to achieve an undetectable viral load, which greatly reduces the risk of opportunistic infections and other complications related to HIV.
A drug resistance test is also used to determine whether the virus resists certain medications. This helps your doctor decide on the most effective treatment options for your case.
Signs and Symptoms of HIV
The symptoms of HIV vary depending on the stage of infection. In the acute HIV infection stage, which occurs about two to four weeks after exposure, people may experience symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen glands, and a rash. Some individuals may have mild symptoms or none at all, making it harder to identify the infection early.
The chronic HIV infection stage may last five to ten years and often presents no symptoms or only mild ones. However, some individuals may progress to AIDS more quickly.
AIDS is the most severe stage of HIV infection. Symptoms during this stage can include significant weight loss, extreme fatigue, fever, pneumonia, persistent diarrhoea, sores in the mouth, anus, or genital area, certain types of cancers, skin problems, and swollen lymph glands.
Transmission of HIV
HIV spreads through infected blood or bodily fluids such as semen and vaginal secretions. It is commonly transmitted through unprotected sexual contact, particularly vaginal or anal sex. Sharing needles for injecting drugs or tattooing can also lead to transmission. Additionally, HIV can be transmitted through accidental needle sticks and from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
Social Factors
Migration, industrialisation, and social and economic challenges are significant factors that contribute to the spread of HIV/AIDS in various regions. These factors can exacerbate vulnerability to the virus, making prevention efforts more difficult.
Status of HIV
Status of HIV Globally, 39.9 million people were living with HIV at the end of 2023. In India, over 2.5 million people are living with HIV, with an adult prevalence rate of 0.2 per cent. Despite ongoing efforts, the country still reports approximately 66,400 new annual HIV infections. In Jammu and Kashmir, more than 6,600 HIV cases have been registered over the past three decades, highlighting the continued challenges posed by stigma and underreporting.
Prevention
While there is no cure for HIV/AIDS, prevention through health education and awareness can significantly reduce transmission. It is crucial to follow the instructions provided by healthcare providers regarding antiretroviral therapy (ART). People should avoid sharing needles or razors, and ensure that personal items do not come into contact with blood. Additionally, cuts and sores should be covered with a bandage to prevent the spread of the virus. Educating the public and encouraging safe practices are key to controlling the spread of HIV/AIDS.
(The author is a microbiologist. Ideas are personal.)
