How does HIV and AIDS infect a person
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is transmitted from one person to another through exchange of certain body fluids. The most common ways HIV is spread include:
1. Unprotected sexual contact: The virus is commonly spread thual contact with an infected person. Unprotected sex with an infected person can increase the risk of getting HIV.
2. Sharing needles: Injecting drugs with a needle that has been used by an HIV-infected person can transmit the virus.
3. Mother-to-child transmission: An infected mother can transmit the virus to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or through breast milk.
HIV infects the immune system by attacking CD4 cells, which help fight against infection. Without them, the immune system becomes weak and the person becomes more vulnerable to various infections and illnesses. When a person is infected with HIV, they may not show any symptoms for a long time, but the virus can still be transmitted to others. Over time, without proper treatment, the virus can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), which is a more advanced stage of HIV disease where the immune system is severely damaged and the person is susceptible to life-threatening infections.