STIs

Question 1

What is meant by the term ‘STI’?

Answer 1

Sexually transmitted infection

Question 2

Explain the conditions in order for viruses to reproduce.

Answer 2

• A virus isn’t a cell - it’s a protein coat surrounding genetic material
• This means they have to infect living cells (called host cells) to reproduce

(specific types of viruses will only infect specific cells)

Question 3

What is meant by the term ‘HIV’?

Answer 3

Human immunodeficiency virus

Question 4

Describe the effects of HIV.

Answer 4

It infects and kills white blood cells, leading to the onset of AIDS

Question 5

What is meant by the term ‘AIDS’?

Answer 5

Acquired immune deficiency syndrome

Question 6

Describe how HIV is spread.

Answer 6

The virus is spread via infected bodily fluids, such as blood, semen and vaginal fluids

Question 7

Describe how the spread of HIV can be reduced.

Answer 7

• Wearing a condom when having sex
• Avoiding sharing needles
• Taking medication to reduce the risk of passing the virus on

Question 8

(Exam-style question)

HIV is a virus that eventually leads to AIDS in the people it infects.

Explain why a person with AIDS may become seriously ill due to infection by another pathogen.

Answer 8

• HIV kills white blood cells, which are an important part of the immune system
• Therefore, a person with AIDS is more vulnerable to infection because their body is unable to destroy other pathogens

Question 9

(Exam-style question)

Answer 9

Any two from:

• Wear gloves/goggles / cover wounds/cuts
• Clean up spills / use tongs to handle sample tubes
• Store samples in sealed containers
• Dispose of samples safely

Question 10

Describe the pathogen that causes chlamydia and how the infection is spread.

Answer 10

• It is caused by a bacterium
• It is spread via sexual contact

Question 11

Describe how the spread of chlamydia can be reduced.

Answer 11

• Wearing a condom when having sex
• Screening individuals so they can be treated for the infection
• Avoiding sexual contact