HIV/AIDS: Prevention, treatment, govt action

Dr Pardeep Kumar Mohindra spoke with Manav Mander about HIV, one of the most pressing global health challenges that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite significant medical advancements, raising awareness and ensuring effective prevention remain critical to controlling its spread.

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What is HIV/AIDS?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, particularly targeting CD4 cells (T cells), which are essential for fighting infections. If left untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), the final and most severe stage of the infection. At this point, the immune system is severely weakened, making the body vulnerable to various opportunistic infections and certain cancers. Although there is no cure for HIV, medical advancements, particularly in the form of Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), have made it possible for individuals with HIV to live long, healthy lives by managing the virus effectively.

What are the symptoms of HIV/AIDS?

The symptoms of HIV vary depending on the stage of the disease. In the early stage, known as acute HIV infection (2-4 weeks after exposure), individuals may experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, rash, night sweats, muscle aches, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue. After the initial phase, HIV may enter the chronic HIV infection stage, which can last for several years without noticeable symptoms. However, the virus continues to damage the immune system during this time. If left untreated, HIV can advance to AIDS. At this stage, individuals may experience rapid weight loss, chronic diarrhoea, persistent fever, severe infections, skin rashes or sores, neurological issues, and extreme fatigue. The immune system becomes critically compromised, leading to life-threatening complications.

How is HIV transmitted?

HIV is primarily transmitted through the exchange of certain body fluids from an infected person, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk. The virus is mainly spread through unprotected sexual contact, such as vaginal, anal, or oral sex, with an HIV-positive person. People who inject drugs and share needles or other drug equipment are at a high risk of transmission. HIV can also be passed from an infected mother to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. Although rare, HIV can be transmitted through contaminated blood or organ transplants. It is important to note that HIV is not transmitted through casual contact, such as shaking hands, hugging, sharing food, or mosquito bites.

How can HIV be treated?

While there is no cure for HIV, it can be effectively managed with Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), a combination of medications that work to reduce the virus’s ability to replicate, strengthen the immune system, lower the risk of HIV transmission, and improve life expectancy. ART is a lifelong treatment, and adhering to the prescribed regimen is crucial for its success. When taken consistently, ART can help individuals with HIV maintain a good quality of life, keep the virus undetectable, and significantly reduce the risk of transmitting it to others.

What government schemes and initiatives have been implemented to combat HIV?

The government has launched several initiatives to prevent and control the spread of HIV, particularly in India.

The National AIDS Control Programme (NACP), implemented by the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), is one of the key programs focused on awareness, prevention, and treatment. It provides free HIV testing, ART medications, and counselling services to those in need.

Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Centres offer free ART treatment at government hospitals and health centers, helping to improve the quality of life for people living with HIV/AIDS.

The government has also implemented Targeted Interventions for High-Risk Groups, which focuses on vulnerable populations such as sex workers, people who inject drugs, and the LGBTQ+ community to reduce transmission rates.

Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) provides financial support to pregnant women, including those with HIV, ensuring safe deliveries.

The Prevention of Parent-to-Child Transmission (PPTCT) program ensures that HIV-positive pregnant women receive ART to reduce the likelihood of transmitting the virus to their new-borns.

Lastly, Red Ribbon Clubs have been established in schools and colleges to raise awareness among youth about HIV prevention and promote safe practices. Through these government initiatives, access to treatment, education, and support services is being expanded to help reduce the spread of HIV and provide care to those affected.