AIDS is a chronic immune system disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Tomorrow is World Aids Day and here’s everything you need to know about it.
History Of World AIDS Day
World AIDS Day is recognised on December 1 of every year since 1988 to create awareness about the disease. The World Health Organization (WHO) found it in 1988 to promote information sharing between national and international authorities, and also among the public.
Significance Of World AIDS Day
After being discovered in 1984, the virus has cost approximately 35 million people their lives. The day is important as it reminds governments and people that there is still a need for funding, awareness and education for AIDS as there is no cure for it as of now.
Difference between HIV And AIDS
HIV is a human immunodeficiency virus that attacks the body's immune system. If not treated, it can lead to AIDS which is Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome. There is currently no effective cure but there are some controlling treatments available. Once people get HIV, they have it for life.
What Is AIDS And How Does It Spread?
HIV is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) but it can also be spread by contact with infected blood, illicit injection drug use, sharing needles, mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding.
Symptoms Of AIDS
Its common symptoms are fever, headache, muscle aches, joint pain, rashes, sore throat, painful mouth sores, swollen lymph glands mainly on the neck, diarrhoea, weight loss, cough and night sweats.
Cure For AIDS
No cure for HIV/AIDS has been found yet, but medications to control the infection and prevent the progression of the disease have been discovered. Antiviral treatments for HIV have resulted in lesser deaths due to AIDS around the world.
If you liked the story, you can share it and spread the love. Stay tuned to HerZindagi for more.