01/12/2023
"Prevention is better than cure; especially when something has no cure."
Today, we celebrate the 35th World AIDS Day with the theme, 'Remember and Commit.'
The virus known as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) targets the immune system of the body. AIDS, or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, is the disease's most advanced stage.
HIV attacks white blood cells in the body, impairing immunity. This increases the risk of contracting infections, some malignancies, and diseases like tuberculosis.
HIV can spread through bodily fluids such as blood, breast milk, semen, and vaginal secretions from an infected individual. It cannot be transmitted by sharing meals, hugs, or kisses. Additionally, it can pass from a mother to her child.
Antiretroviral therapy is a treatment and prevention strategy for HIV (ART). HIV can develop into AIDS if left untreated, frequently years later.