Because of the media hype that surrounds it and the devastating effects it has on both individuals and large populations, many people have heard of the term “HIV or AIDS” at some point in their lives. Usually the terms stir up fear in an individual, partly because they know that it is a fatal disease, and partly because there is a misunderstanding as to how you can contract it.

HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. This is the virus that causes AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). Every person has an immune system in their body which fights infection and disease. For someone with HIV, the virus locates certain crucial immune system white blood cells called T-cells or CD-4 cells, and destroys them. Thus, an HIV infected person ultimately ends up with a compromised immune system that is unable to ward off illnesses, bacteria, viruses, and diseases. When the body reaches the point where it cannot fight off these pathogens, the person is considered to have AIDS. It usually takes about 10-15 years from the time of HIV infection until full blown AIDS, although antiretroviral drugs can prolong the process.

.Reference resource: Click Here.

How to Reduce Your HIV and AIDS risk
What is HIV?
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) attacks the body’s immune system. A healthy immune system is what keeps you from getting sick.

Because HIV damages your immune system, you are more likely to get sick from bacteria and viruses. It is also harder for your body to fight off these infections when you do get them, so you may have trouble getting better. HIV is the condition that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
_______________________

What is AIDS?
AIDS is a progression of HIV. When HIV moves into its final stages, it is considered to be AIDS. People who have AIDS are at an even higher risk of getting sick, and their bodies are even less able to fight off infections than people who have HIV. They usually die of an infection or cancer.
_______________________

How do people get HIV?
HIV can only be passed from person to person through body fluids, such as blood, semen and vaginal fluid. The most common ways HIV is passed are:
•By having unprotected anal, vaginal or oral sex with an infected person.
•By sharing needles and syringes for injecting drugs with an infected person.
You may be at risk of getting HIV if you have any of the risk factors listed in the box below. Children born to infected mothers can also become infected during pregnancy.

.Reference resource: Click Here.