AIDS Day: Tests, HIV Symptoms & Transmission

December 1st is dedicated to people living with HIV & AIDS. Learn about HIV symptoms, diagnostic tests & transmission.

World AIDS Day

World AIDS Day “Equalize” On World AIDS Day, the World Health Organization calls on global governments and citizens to address the inequalities that are hindering the end of the AIDS epidemic on the planet. Every year, December 1st is dedicated to people living with HIV and those who have lost their lives to AIDS-related illnesses. With the motto “equalize”, the WHO, along with leading international organizations that unite their forces in the fight against AIDS, are calling this year on global leaders and citizens to recognize and boldly address the inequalities that hinder progress in ending the pandemic. They also appeal for all population groups, especially the most vulnerable such as children and specific groups at higher risk of the AIDS virus, to have access to basic HIV care services. As the World Health Organization specifically states on the occasion of World AIDS Day, in recent years, progress towards AIDS targets has stalled, resources have shrunk, impacting the lives of millions of people. Read also... Syphilis Read also... HPV - Warts “Division, inequality, and disrespect for human rights are among the failures that allowed HIV to become and remain a global health crisis.”

HIV Diagnoses in Greece In Greece, however, the statistics from EODY (National Public Health Organization) for the ten months of the current year show a decrease in new diagnoses, which is considered the largest in the last 11 years. According to the EODY report, as of October 31st, 430 cases were reported to the Organization, of which 343 concerned men and 78 concerned women. Approximately 40 years after the identification of the first patients with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, AIDS is a manageable disease, and the challenge now is for humanity to reach the end of the pandemic. “The virus that causes AIDS has claimed 40 million lives in approximately 40 years.”

What are HIV and AIDS? HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically the white blood cells called CD4. Without proper therapeutic management, it can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome - AIDS.

Diagnosis HIV infection is diagnosed with a specific laboratory test that requires a simple blood draw. The test detects antibodies produced by the body against the virus. The test for this specific procedure is strictly covered by medical confidentiality. The HIV test must be performed by medical-nursing personnel or healthcare professionals and the results communicated by a doctor.

Modes of HIV-AIDS Transmission The HIV virus is not transmitted through physical contact, such as touching or shaking hands, nor through insect bites. As it cannot survive in water, it is not transmitted through swimming either. Once infected, the virus is present in varying concentrations in human biological fluids, from where it can be transmitted. Specifically, high concentrations of the HIV virus are found in: Blood. Semen. Vaginal secretions. Breast milk.

HIV - AIDS Symptoms The HIV virus does not always cause symptoms in everyone. Most people develop symptoms 2 to 4 weeks after infection, which can last from a few days to several weeks. These symptoms resemble those of the flu and are usually not severe. However, there are also individuals who do not develop symptoms. The only sure way to know if someone has been infected with the AIDS virus is through testing.

HIV Treatment Currently, there is no effective treatment or vaccine for people living with or at risk of HIV. However, with appropriate care (antiretroviral therapy ART), the infection can be controlled, and the progression of the disease can be prevented. People with HIV can live long, healthy lives and also protect their partners. Today, HIV infection is considered a chronic disease, provided the patient systematically adheres to their treatment.

Target: 95% The global community's target is now 95-95-95-95, meaning to achieve 95% for diagnosis, treatment, viral suppression, and quality of life for people living with AIDS. "If someone contracts HIV today, they will be HIV-positive for the rest of their life."

PrEP Prevention Therapy Pre-exposure prophylaxis offered by PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) therapy has changed the landscape in the social aspect and prevention of HIV. If taken correctly, PrEP therapy reduces the risk of contracting HIV by 99%. This therapy, which is essentially an antiretroviral drug consisting of one pill, does not protect against other sexually transmitted diseases, nor does it prevent pregnancy. Also read... PrEP

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How is AIDS transmitted?

AIDS is a sexually transmitted disease. It can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, and oral contact, during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding from an HIV-positive mother, or through sharing sharp objects (needles, razors, syringes). The HIV virus is not transmitted through social contact (handshake, hug, kiss on the cheek, etc.).

What does "undetectable" viral load mean?

Individuals living with HIV who have an "undetectable" viral load in their blood do not transmit the HIV virus, according to various studies.

Does the condom protect against HIV transmission?

The condom is a truly effective means of prevention for men and women when used correctly and consistently.

What is the "window period"?

It is the time period from the moment of infection until the detection of antibodies for HIV.