STIs 3: HIV Infection

HIV Infection

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a retrovirus transmitted through contact with infected blood or other body fluids.
In addition to transmission during sexual contact, HIV can be transmitted through other contact with blood or other body fluids, such as shared needles; blood transfusions; shared items, such as razors and toothbrushes; needlestick injuries; or use of unclean tattooing needles, skin-cutting tools, or surgical equipment.

The early symptoms of HIV infection often include:

Unexplained loss of weight lasting at least one month
Diarrhea lasting for several weeks
A white coating on the tongue (thrush/oral candidiasis)
Enlarged or sore lymph nodes (glands) in the neck, armpits, and/or genital area, as well as generalized swollen glands
A cough that persists for more than one month
Persistant fever and/or night sweats
In women, persistent yeast infection

There is no vaccine available to prevent HIV infection, and there is no cure. Treatment does not cure the infection, but some medications can slow the spread of the virus or fight illnesses common in those infected.
HIV weakens the immune system, making the infected person susceptible to many infections that the body is normally able to fight off. Many conditions may be especially severe, difficult to treat, and recurrent in individuals with HIV infection.
HIV causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), which can lead to opportunistic infections, such as pneumonia, certain types of cancer; other life-threatening diseases; and eventually death.
In women, HIV can also cause recurrent yeast infections, PID, and an abnormal Pap smear showing unhealthy changes in cervical cells.

An infected client should inform all sexual partners he or she has had in the last three months about the infection (if possible) and encourage them to come to the clinic for more information, counseling, testing, and treatment—even if a partner does not have any symptoms.
An infected client should refrain from donating blood, body organs, other tissue, or sperm and from sharing any items that might come into contact with blood (such as needles, razors, and toothbrushes).
An infected client should always practice safer sex and use a male or female condom during anal, oral, or vaginal sex.
In pregnant women, HIV can be transmitted to the baby during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding. The likelihood of transmission to a baby can be reduced if the woman receives appropriate antiretroviral treatment and practices appropriate infant feeding.