WORLD AIDS DAY - 1ST DECEMBER

AIDS is a condition that affects the immune system, the body's defense against infections. It is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which attacks and destroys the immune system cells, specifically CD4 cells or T-helper cells. When a person becomes infected with HIV, the virus attacks and weakens the immune system. As the immune system weakens, the person is at risk for getting life-threatening infections and cancers. When that happens, the illness is called AIDS. Once a person has the virus, it stays inside the body for life.

MODE OF TRANSMISSION

The most common modes of transmission include

1. Unprotected sexual intercourse,
2. Sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia, and
3. Mother-to-child transmission during childbirth or breastfeeding.

SYMPTOMS OF HIV

1. - Fatigue
2. - Weight loss
3. - Recurrent infections
4. - Night sweats
5. - Swollen lymph nodes
6.  Mouth sores

EXAMS AND TEST

1. Screening test -- There are several kinds of tests. Some are blood tests, others are mouth fluid tests. They check for antibodies to the HIV virus, HIV antigen, or both. Some screening tests can give results in 30 minutes or less.
2. Follow-up test -- This is also called a confirmatory test. It is often done when the screening test is positive.

TREATMENT

1. - Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the standard treatment for HIV/AIDS
2. - ART helps suppress the virus, restore the immune system, and prevent the progression to AIDS
3. - Regular monitoring of CD4 cell counts and viral load
4. - Adherence to medication regimens is crucial for effective treatment
5. - Supportive care to manage symptoms and complications

PREVENTION

1. - Practice safe sex, including the use of condoms
2. - Get tested regularly for HIV
3. - Avoid sharing needles or drug paraphernalia
4. - Educate yourself and others about HIV/AIDS
5. - Promote awareness and combat stigma

HOW TO COMBAT STIGMATIZATION

1. Education and Awareness: Promote accurate information about HIV/AIDS to dispel myths and misconceptions. Encourage open discussions and provide resources that help people understand the facts.
2. Language Matters: Use person-first language and avoid stigmatizing terms or labels. Emphasize that HIV is a medical condition and not a moral judgment.
3. Empathy and Compassion: Foster a culture of empathy and support for individuals living with HIV/AIDS. Encourage understanding and acceptance by sharing personal stories and experiences.
4. Addressing Discrimination: Advocate for policies and laws that protect the rights of individuals living with HIV/AIDS. Support initiatives that address discrimination and ensure access to healthcare, employment, and education.

THE STRATEGIES TO EDUCATE PEOPLE ABOUT HIV/AIDS

1. Comprehensive Sex Education: Implement comprehensive sex education programs in schools and communities that provide age-appropriate information about HIV transmission, prevention methods, and dispel common misconceptions.

2. Media Campaigns: Utilize various media platforms, such as television, radio, social media, and print, to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS. These campaigns can include personal stories, educational messages, and promote testing and prevention methods.

3. Community Workshops and Seminars: Organize workshops and seminars in community centers, healthcare facilities, and other public spaces to provide information about HIV/AIDS. These sessions can cover topics like transmission, prevention, testing, and treatment options. source: Medlineplus 2020

MYTHS OF HIV

1. Insects can transmit HIV
2. HIV can spread via water or food
3. Couples with HIV do not need to protect themselves
4. Blood transfusions raise HIV risk
5. Oral sex cannot lead to HIV
6. HIV can spread through kissing
7. It is impossible to contract HIV from a needle