HIV/AIDS
Human immunodeficiency virus infection / acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) is a disease of the human immune system caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). During
the initial infection a person may experience a brief period of influenza-like
illness. This is typically followed by a prolonged period without symptoms. As
the illness progresses it interferes more and more with the immune system,
making people much more likely to get infections, including opportunistic
infections, and tumors that do not
usually affect people with working immune systems.
HIV is transmitted primarily via
unprotected sexual
intercourse (including anal and even oral sex), contaminated
blood
transfusions and hypodermic needles, and from
mother to child during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding. Some
bodily fluids, such as saliva and tears, do not transmit HIV. Prevention of HIV
infection, primarily through safe sex and needle-exchange
programs, is a key strategy to control the spread of the disease. There is no
cure or vaccine; however, antiretroviral treatment can slow the
course of the disease and may lead to a near-normal life expectancy. While
antiretroviral treatment reduces the risk of death and complications from the
disease, these medications are expensive and may be associated with side
effects.
HIV/AIDS has had a great impact on society, both as an
illness and as a source of discrimination.There are many misconceptions about HIV/AIDS such as the
belief that it can be transmitted by casual non-sexual contact. The disease has
also become subject to many controversies
involving religion.
Sumber : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HIV/AIDS
Postingan
