HIV Virus: Understanding Its Mechanisms and Impact on Human Health

Kapanlagi.com - HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) has become one of the most serious global health challenges since it was first identified. This virus attacks our immune system, particularly the CD4 cells that play a crucial role in protecting the body from various infections. Without proper treatment, HIV can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), which is the final stage of infection where the immune system suffers severe damage.

Recent data shows how horrific the impact of HIV is, with approximately 42.3 million lives worldwide having fallen victim to this disease. On the other hand, it is estimated that there are 39.9 million people living with HIV by the end of 2023.

Although there is still no cure that can completely eradicate HIV, remarkable advancements in antiretroviral therapy (ART) have provided new hope. This therapy allows HIV-positive individuals to lead normal and quality lives by suppressing the virus's progression and keeping the immune system strong, thus preventing progression to AIDS.

The importance of having a proper understanding of HIV cannot be underestimated. Misinformation and stigma that still circulate in society regarding transmission, treatment, and the daily lives of people living with HIV need to be addressed through comprehensive education.

In order to raise awareness and knowledge, Liputan6.com has summarized various important aspects regarding HIV, from its definition, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, to preventive measures. Let us all contribute to fighting HIV and creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for those affected!

1. HIV and AIDS Diseases

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically CD4 cells, which are crucial for fighting infections. HIV infection can progress to AIDS if the number of CD4 cells drops below 200 cells/mm, resulting in an increased risk of opportunistic infections.

Although HIV cannot be cured, advancements in treatment, particularly antiretroviral therapy (ART), allow those infected to live healthy lives and have a life expectancy close to that of the general population.

With consistent ART, HIV-positive individuals can achieve an undetectable "viral load," thus not transmitting the virus (the concept of "U=U"). Research is ongoing to find vaccines and more effective treatment methods, including gene therapy and monoclonal antibodies.

2. Causes and Transmission of HIV

One of the biggest challenges in combating HIV infection is the lack of deep understanding about this virus, which is often accompanied by misinformation surrounding transmission, prevention, and treatment.

The social stigma surrounding HIV often hinders open discussion, making many people reluctant to seek information or treatment early.

The HIV virus spreads through certain body fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk, with the most common transmission occurring through unprotected sexual intercourse and the sharing of needles, especially among drug users.

In Indonesia, the pattern of HIV spread shows that unsafe sexual relations and the use of unsterilized needles are the main causes of infection. Additionally, babies born to HIV-positive mothers who do not receive treatment are also at high risk of infection.

However, it is important to remember that HIV cannot be transmitted through casual everyday contact, such as shaking hands or sharing eating utensils.

3. HIV Symptoms at Various Stages of Infection

HIV symptoms appear at various stages, starting from acute infection resembling the flu within 2-4 weeks after exposure to the virus, with fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes often misinterpreted as a common illness.

Then, in the chronic infection stage, which can last for years, the infected person may appear healthy, but the virus continues to replicate slowly, potentially being contagious without their knowledge.

Finally, in the AIDS stage, symptoms become more severe, such as prolonged fever, night sweats, drastic weight loss, and life-threatening opportunistic infections.

Fortunately, with proper antiretroviral treatment, many people living with HIV can prevent the progression of the disease to AIDS, allowing them to live nearly as long as uninfected individuals.

4. Diagnosis and Treatment of HIV

HIV diagnosis can be performed through a series of advanced tests to detect the presence of the virus in the body.

One of them is an antibody test, which looks for signs of the body's defense against HIV, usually requiring 3-12 weeks after infection and can be done with blood, saliva, or urine samples.

There is also the p24 antigen test that can detect specific virus proteins within just 2-6 weeks post-infection, often combined with antibody tests for quicker results.

Additionally, a CD4 cell count is important to assess immune system health; if the count drops below 200 cells per cubic millimeter, it indicates the progression to AIDS.

Finally, the viral load or HIV RNA count provides an overview of how much virus is present in the blood, where a figure above 100,000 copies per milliliter indicates a new or poorly managed infection.

5. HIV and AIDS Complications

Without proper medical treatment, HIV can trigger a series of serious complications that threaten the health of almost all body systems.

Opportunistic infections such as Pneumocystis Pneumonia (PCP) can cause lung inflammation with symptoms of shortness of breath and fever, while candidiasis or thrush manifests as thick white patches in the mouth and throat.

Tuberculosis (TB), which is a leading cause of death among AIDS patients, also lurks with a high risk of reactivation.

Cryptococcal meningitis infections can lead to severe headaches and stiff neck, while cat-transmitted toxoplasmosis can cause brain inflammation.

Moreover, cytomegalovirus infections can damage various organs, and HIV-related cancers such as Kaposi's sarcoma and lymphoma pose increasing threats.

However, with effective ARV therapy, the risk of these complications can be significantly reduced, providing new hope for HIV patients to live healthier by maintaining stable CD4 cell counts.

6. HIV Prevention and Education

HIV prevention requires a diverse and strategic approach to reduce the risk of transmission.

One important step is the proper use of condoms; ensure that the latex or polyurethane condoms used are in good condition and new for each sexual encounter.

In addition, limiting the number of sexual partners and choosing monogamous relationships with partners whose HIV status is known is also highly recommended.

Regularly getting tested for HIV and discussing status with partners is another wise step. For those at high risk, PrEP can be a powerful protective measure, reducing the likelihood of transmission by up to 99%.

For injection drug users, it is important not to share needles and to always use sterile equipment. Also, ensure that blood transfusions are safe with blood that has been screened for HIV.

Finally, for pregnant women with HIV, undergoing antiretroviral therapy can reduce the risk of transmission to their babies to a very low level.

(kpl/rao)