Concepts of HIV / AIDS and others STIs

HIV/AIDS

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

A virus that attacks the immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T-helper cells), which are crucial for fighting infections.

Transmission:

1. Unprotected sexual contact.
2. Sharing needles or syringes.
3. Mother-to-child during childbirth or breastfeeding.
4. Blood transfusions (rare in countries with safe blood supply practices).

AIDS

A condition caused by untreated HIV where the immune system is severely damaged.

Symptoms: Persistent fever, weight loss, chronic diarrhea, skin rashes, and opportunistic infections (e.g., tuberculosis, pneumonia, candidiasis).

Treatment: No cure, but antiretroviral therapy (ART) can suppress the virus to undetectable levels and prevent progression to AIDS.

STIs

STIs are infections transmitted through sexual contact (vaginal, anal, or oral). They can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites.

Common STIs

1. Chlamydia:
   • Caused by bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis.
   • Symptoms: Often asymptomatic, but can cause genital pain and discharge.
   • Treatment: Antibiotics.
2. Gonorrhea:
   • Caused by bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
   • Symptoms: Painful urination, abnormal discharge.
   • Treatment: Antibiotics, though drug resistance is a growing concern.
3. Syphilis:
   • Caused by bacteria Treponema pallidum.
   • Symptoms: Painless sore (chancre), rash, and long-term complications if untreated.
   • Treatment: Penicillin.