AIDS/HIV (See: HIV/AIDS)

What is the difference between HIV and AIDS?
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is the virus itself. It attacks the immune system, specifically CD4 cells (T cells).

AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the final, most severe stage of HIV infection. It occurs when the immune system is badly damaged, and the CD4 count drops below 200.

With modern medication, most people with HIV never develop AIDS.

✅ IMPORTANT UPDATE: U=U
Undetectable = Untransmittable.
If a person with HIV takes their medication daily and maintains an "undetectable" viral load, they cannot sexually transmit the virus to HIV-negative partners. This is a scientific fact supported by the CDC and WHO.

The 3 Stages of Infection

Symptoms change as the virus progresses.

Stage 1: Acute Infection (2–4 weeks after exposure)

Many people feel like they have the "worst flu ever." This is when you are most contagious.

• Fever and chills.
• Rash.
• Night sweats.
• Muscle aches and a sore throat.
• Mouth ulcers.

Stage 2: Clinical Latency (Chronic HIV)

The virus remains active, although it reproduces at low levels. You may have no symptoms during this time. Without treatment, this stage can last 10 years or longer; however, some progress more rapidly.

Stage 3: AIDS

The immune system is severely damaged. Symptoms include:

• Rapid weight loss.
• Recurring fever or profuse night sweats.
• Extreme tiredness.
• Prolonged swelling of the lymph glands.
• Opportunistic infections (like Pneumonia or Kaposi's Sarcoma).

Transmission: Fact vs. Fiction

HIV IS Spread By:	HIV is NOT Spread By:
Blood Semen & Pre-seminal fluid Rectal fluids Vaginal fluids Breast milk	Hugging or shaking hands Saliva, tears, or sweat Toilet seats or dishes Mosquitoes or ticks Air or water

Risk Factors & Statistics

Anyone can get HIV, but systemic factors affect who is most at risk. According to CDC data (United States):

• Sexual Orientation: Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men account for about 69% of new HIV diagnoses.
• Race/Ethnicity: African Americans are disproportionately affected, accounting for 42% of new HIV diagnoses, despite making up only 13% of the US population. Hispanic/Latino populations account for 27% of new diagnoses.
• Injection Drug Use: Sharing needles remains a significant vector for transmission.

Diagnosis

The only way to know is to get tested. Window periods (time between infection and detection) vary:

• Nucleic Acid Tests (NAT): Can detect HIV 10–33 days after exposure.
• Antigen/Antibody Tests: Can detect HIV 18–45 days after exposure (venous blood) or 18–90 days (finger prick).

Treatment & Prevention

There is no cure, but HIV is manageable.

1. Antiretroviral Therapy (ART)

Taking a combination of HIV medicines (often just one pill a day) prevents the virus from multiplying. This keeps the immune system strong and prevents transmission.

2. PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)

Prevention for HIV-negative people. Taking a daily pill (like Truvada or Descovy) or a bi-monthly shot (Apretude) reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99%.

3. PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis)

⚠️ EMERGENCY PREVENTION
If you think you were exposed to HIV (e.g., condom broke, needle stick) within the last 72 hours, go to the ER or a clinic immediately and ask for PEP. It can prevent infection if started quickly.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician regarding any medical condition.