1. Human Immunodeficiency Virus
HIV
Human Immunodeficiency Virus

2. Human Immunodeficiency Virus
HIV Defined
Human Immunodeficiency Virus
HIV attacks specific cells of the immune system, disabling the body’s defenses against other pathogens.
HIV infects helper T cells which are responsible for stimulating other cells of the immune system to produce antibodies against invading pathogens.

3. HIV Transmission 4 Fluids that can transmit the virus Blood Semen
Vaginal Fluids
Breast Milk

4. Transmission Routes
Body Openings
Genitals
Anus
Mouth
Opening of skin

5. HIV is usually transmitted by:
Sexual contact that involves contact with an infected persons’ body fluids (vaginal secretions, semen, blood) through vaginal, oral, and anal sex.
Sharing needles with an infected person (IV drugs, steroids, injecting vitamins, tattooing)
Mother to baby During pregnancy mother can infect unborn baby in the womb, during the birth process, or breast milk of infected mother
Contact with infected blood into a cut or sore

6. HIV Testing Test confidentially or anonymously
Positive test result= presence of HIV antibodies
Antibodies usually develop within 3 months but can take up to 6 months (6 month window period)
Positive test means:
You are infected with HIV
You will always have HIV
You can infect others

7. Stages of HIV Infection
Asymptomatic Stage:
“lack of symptoms” Most people don’t experience symptoms until 7-10 years after infected and they may feel fine. People can still infect others in this stage.

8. Symptomatic Stage This stage is marked by a person feeling symptoms.
Symptoms may include:
Persistent diarrhea
Persistent fever
Fungal infections
Fatigue
Swollen lymph nodes
Rashes
Sore throat

9. AIDS Stage AIDS = Acquired Immunodeficiency Disease
Is marked by a very low number of T cells. The average number for a healthy person is AIDS is defined at a T cell count under 200. At this point a person’s immune system is extremely low and more susceptible to infection. Opportunistic infections are infections that take advantage of a weak immune system and is what ultimately causes death of an AIDS patient.

10. AIDS SYMPTOMS Coughing and shortness of breath
Seizures and lack of coordination
Difficult or painful swallowing
Mental symptoms such as confusion and forgetfulness
Severe or persistent diarrhea
Vision loss
Various cancer
Severe headaches
Coma
Extreme fatigue

11. HIV Will Lead to AIDS and ultimately cause death
A person may move out of the AIDS stage if T cells raise but will never be HIV free

12. How to Prevent Transmission
Practice Abstinence
Avoid Drugs
Avoid contact with blood or body fluids
Sexual fidelity in marriage / monogamous relationship
Barrier protection (latex condoms)