10 Words associated with HIV/AIDS and their meaning

DEFINITION OF KEY TERMS

HIV (Human Immuno-deficiency virus): Is the virus that invades the body system, weakens it and exposes the body to various life-threatening infections. HIV is transmitted through the following ways

Blood transfusion (unscreened blood)
Sharing of sharp objects e.g Nail cutter, clippers, razor blades, e.t.c
Mother to Child (during childbirth or breastfeeding)
Unprotected sex

AIDS (Acquired Immune deficiency Syndrome): AIDS is the late stage of HIV Infection that occurs when the body’s immune system is badly damaged at a high risk of death.

WORDS ASSOCIATED WITH HIV/AIDS

The following are words associated with HIV/AIDS

Infection: The process by which the HIV virus enters the body and begins to replicate, leading to the development of HIV disease, and potentially AIDS if untreated. HIV attacks the immune system, specifically CD4 cells, weakening the body’s ability to fight infections.
Transfusion: The process of transferring blood or blood products from one person to another. HIV can be transmitted through transfusions if the blood is contaminated with the virus, although blood banks now screen for HIV to prevent this.
Immune: Refers to the body’s defense system, which protects against infections and diseases. In the context of HIV, the immune system becomes weakened over time as HIV attacks CD4 cells, leading to a compromised immune response.
Virus: A microscopic infectious agent that can only replicate inside the living cells of a host. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically targeting and destroying CD4 cells, which are essential for immune defense.
Deficiency: A lack or shortage of something. In the case of HIV/AIDS, “immune deficiency” refers to the weakening or loss of function in the immune system, making the body more vulnerable to infections and diseases.
Antibodies: Proteins produced by the immune system in response to foreign substances (antigens), like viruses. The body produces antibodies to fight against HIV, and their presence can be detected through an HIV test, indicating exposure to the virus.
Diagnosis: The process of identifying a disease or condition, in this case, HIV. HIV diagnosis typically involves blood tests to detect the presence of the virus or HIV antibodies. Early diagnosis is critical for managing HIV and preventing its progression to AIDS.
Screening: The process of testing individuals for the presence of HIV or other diseases even if they show no symptoms. HIV screening helps identify individuals who are infected and may not yet be aware, allowing for early intervention.
Syndrome: A collection of symptoms and signs that occur together and characterize a particular disease. “AIDS” (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) refers to the final stage of HIV infection, where the immune system is severely compromised, and the person is vulnerable to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.
STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection): Infections transmitted primarily through sexual contact. HIV is one such STI, and individuals with other STIs may be at higher risk for acquiring or transmitting HIV. Condoms, Abstinence and other prevention methods can reduce the risk of both HIV and other STIs.