HIV INFECTION Meaning and
Definition
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HIV infection refers to the medical condition caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). It is a chronic viral infection that attacks the immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells), which are vital for maintaining a healthy immune response against infections and diseases.
When a person becomes infected with HIV, the virus enters their body and begins to replicate, gradually weakening the immune system over time. This weakening of the immune system characterizes the progression from HIV infection to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), which is the advanced stage of the disease.
HIV is primarily transmitted through specific bodily fluids like blood, semen, vaginal fluid, and breast milk. Transmission can occur through sexual intercourse, sharing contaminated needles or syringes, mother-to-child during childbirth or breastfeeding, and rare cases of blood transfusion or organ transplantation.
The symptoms of HIV infection can vary widely, with some individuals experiencing flu-like symptoms shortly after infection, while others may remain asymptomatic for years. Common symptoms can include fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, body aches, and rash. However, it is important to note that symptoms alone are not sufficient to diagnose HIV infection, as they can be similar to those of other viral infections.
Although there is no cure for HIV infection, antiretroviral therapy (ART) has significantly improved the health outcomes of individuals living with HIV. Early diagnosis, regular medical care, adherence to ART, and practicing safe behaviors can effectively manage and control the progression of HIV infection, allowing individuals to lead long and healthy lives.
Common Misspellings for HIV INFECTION
- giv infection
- biv infection
- niv infection
- jiv infection
- uiv infection
- yiv infection
- huv infection
- hjv infection
- hkv infection
- hov infection
- h9v infection
- h8v infection
- hic infection
- hib infection
- hig infection
- hif infection
- hiv unfection
- hiv jnfection
- hiv knfection
- hiv onfection
Etymology of HIV INFECTION
The term "HIV infection" is an acronym that stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus infection. Here is the breakdown of its etymology:
1. Human: Refers to the fact that the virus affects human beings.
2. Immunodeficiency: Describes the weakening or damage of the immune system caused by the virus. Immunodeficiency means a reduced ability to fight off infections and diseases.
3. Virus: A microorganism that can infect living organisms and replicate inside their cells. The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) specifically targets the immune system cells, particularly CD4 T cells, and weakens the body's ability to fight off other infections and diseases.
Therefore, "HIV infection" refers to the invasion and replication of the human immunodeficiency virus in the body, resulting in a weakened immune system.
