HIV/AIDS Facts
Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Viruses are responsible for many of the hard-to-treat ailments in our society, from the common cold and flu, to more serious conditions like AIDS.
AIDS is a disease caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV--pictured at right, courtesy of Health and Development Initiative-India). This virus is spread from person to person through the exchange of contaminated body fluids, like blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk.
When HIV enters the body, it attaches itself to white blood cells (part of the immune system). The virus contains a protein that causes the white blood cells to produce new HIV cells, which attach to other white blood cells and are carried to all areas of the body.
Just like the virus that causes the common cold, HIV cannot be “cured” with medications. Furthermore, there is no vaccine to prevent infection. However, many medications do exist today that can help to keep the number of viruses in check for long periods of time. Contact your physician to discuss the treatment options that may be available to you.
