(Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome)
It is a pandemic disease. The word “immuno deficiency” signifies that the immune
system becomes very weak. It is a disorder of cell-mediated immune system of the
body.
Lymphocytes are the main cells of the immune system i.e. T-lymphocytes and
B-lymphocytes. ‘Helper T’ lymphocytes play a great role in regulating the immune
system. Damages to or destruction of ‘Helper’ lymphocytes lead to the development
of a cellular immune deficiency which makes the patient susceptible to wide variety
of infections.
Mode of transmission :
AIDS may be transmitted through any of the following means :
(i) Sexual contact with the affected person. In India, the most common route of
HIV transmission is through unprotected heterosexual sex.
(ii) Using the same syringe as that of affected person.
(iii) Blood transfusion which contains human immuno deficiency virus.
(iv) Organ transplantation of the affected person.
(v) Artificial insemination.
(vi) From mother to new born baby during the process of giving birth.
Incubation period : The average period is 28 months though it may range between
15 to 57 months
Symptoms :
The sufferer may show one or more of the following symptoms :
(i) A type of lung disease develops (tuberculosis).
(ii) A skin cancer may be observed.
(iii) Nerves are effected.
(iv) Brain is badly damaged with the loss of memory, ability to speak and to think
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(v) The number of platelets (thrombocytes) become less which may cause
haemorrhage.
(vi) In severe cases the patient shows swollen lymph nodes, fever and loss of weight.
A full blown (disease at its peak ) AIDS patient, may die within three years.
Prevention and cure
No medicine or vaccine is known to be available against HIV infection. Therefore,
care has to be taken through following measures:
(i) There should not be any sexual contact with the person who has HIV infection
or STI. Since STI causes some damage to the gemital area and mucous layer,
and thus facilitates the entry of HIV into the body.
(ii) Use disposable syringe and needle.
(iii) The blood to be transfused to the needy person, should be free from HIV germ.
(iv) Prostitution and homosexuality should be avoided.
(v) Condom should always be used during intercourse.
Control
AIDS can be detected by ELISA test.
There are three points which may be important to control STD.
(i) Partner notification : Identification of potential infected contact, examination
and treatment.
(ii) Education of STD : This should be a part of general education.
(iii) Screening for STD : Serological screening of groups, such as, blood donors,
women before giving birth.
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