HIV Flashcards
How does HIV a affect someone ?
Attaches itself to the CD4 cells . Virus then infects cells and uses it as a place to multiply and destroys cells ability to perform role is immune system ( cannot fight infection )
How is HIV transmitted?
Through bodily fluids of an infected person e.g. Blood , pre-seminal & seminal fluids , vaginal fluids , breastmilk and infected needles .
Which groups of people are at a higher risk of contracting HIV ?
People who engage in unprotected sex , drug addicts sharing needles , blood transfusion & from mother to unborn child
What does HIV stand for ?
Human Immune Deficiency Virus
How is HIV treated ?
Wth antiretroviral drugs - a combo of 3 is given : Zidovudine, Lamivudine and neviropine , body recover slows process down ( very expensive)
How can you prevent HIV/AIDS?
- protected sex
- take medication for HIV regularly
What does AIDS stand for ?
Acquired Immunodeficiency Virus
1) 3 weeks , no symptoms , virus in blood , HIV negative
2) 3-12 ,Window period ( no signs of disease) virus in blood , HIV negative
3) +- 2- 15 yrs , HIV positive but no signs of Disease
4) +- 6 months - first symptoms
5) death
What are the stages of HIV/AIDS ?
Weight loss , swollen glands , fever , diarrhea , night sweats , body becomes weak
Dangerous infects can occur ( brain cancer )
What are the symptoms of HIV/AIDS ?
3-12 weeks after Infection, unsure of status .
What is the “window period “
Regular blood tests shows a CD4 count bet low ( less than 200 CD4 cells per ml blood= AIDS ) evidence of anti-bodies
Results of status confidential
How to determine your HIV status ?
Sexually Transmitted Infection
What is an STI ?
Do CD4 cells carry antigens and where?
Yes ,CD 4 cells carry their antigens on the their surfaces
