HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) continues to pose a major public health challenge worldwide. Although scientific advances have made it possible to transform this infection into a chronic disease that can be controlled by treatment, millions of people are still living with the virus, and new infections occur every year.
Information is one of the most effective weapons against HIV. Understanding how the virus is transmitted, how to protect oneself from it, and why testing is essential saves lives and combats stigma.
HIV is a virus that attacks immune system cells, particularly CD4 lymphocytes. These cells play a vital role in defending the body against infections.
Without treatment, the virus progressively weakens the immune system. In an advanced stage, when natural defenses are severely weakened, it is called AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).
It is important to understand that HIV and AIDS are not the same thing. A person can live for many years with HIV without developing AIDS thanks to antiretroviral treatments.
The virus is transmitted only through certain biological fluids containing a sufficient quantity of the virus.
The main modes of transmission are:
- Unprotected sexual intercourse (vaginal or anal).
- Sharing contaminated syringes or needles.
- Transmission from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding, without appropriate medical care.
- Transfusions of contaminated blood, which have become very rare thanks to the control of blood products.
Contrary to popular belief, HIV is not transmitted by:
- A handshake.
- Hugs.
- Ordinary kisses.
- Sharing meals or drinks.
- The toilets.
- Swimming pools.
- Mosquitoes or other insects.
- Sweat, tears, or sneezing.
This information is essential to combat fear and discrimination.
Shortly after infection, some people experience flu-like symptoms:
- Fever.
- Significant fatigue.
- Headaches.
- Swollen lymph nodes.
- Rash.
- Muscle pain.
However, many people experience no symptoms for several years. This is why testing remains the only reliable way to know one's serological status.
Screening allows for:
- to quickly know its status;
- to start treatment as soon as possible if the test is positive;
- to significantly reduce the risk of complications;
- to protect its partners.
Today, a person living with HIV who adheres to their treatment regimen can achieve an undetectable viral load. In this case, they cannot transmit HIV sexually (a principle known as "Undetectable = Untransmittable" or U=U).
Prevention relies on several complementary strategies.
The male or female condom remains an effective way to reduce the risk of transmission of HIV and many other sexually transmitted infections.
Any sexually active person should get tested according to their situation and the recommendations of healthcare professionals.
Syringes, needles and other objects that can be contaminated by blood should never be shared.
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