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Unit 3: AIDS: Background Information
Unit 3: AIDS: Background Information
Background Information
1981 26 cases of Kaposi Sarcoma (Vascular
Tumour) AIDS cases reported in USA
1983 HIV (Human Immune Deficiency Virus) isolated; first AIDS case
reported in Central Africa; Haiti
Causative Agent
AIDS is caused by HIV virus. It is a retrovirus, which has the ability to change its
genetic material (RNA) into human genetic material (DNA) through the use of an
enzyme.
Modes of Transmission
1. Sexual Intercourse (70 – 80% patterns)
Unprotected Anal or Vaginal Intercourse with an infected
person.
Dr R Bholah, MIE
Incubation Period
It is not known and may be 10 – 15 years, but recent evidence suggest that the
average incubation period for people who develop AIDS is 2 – 5 years.
Stage 2
– Early infection
– Asymptomatic (last for month to years)
Stage 3
– Infection
– Minor infection Oral thrush, Dermatitis…etc.
Stage 4
– Severe HIV disease
– Development of opportunitistic infection/ pulmonary infections
Dr R Bholah, MIE
PREVENTIVE TREATMENT
Protecting oneself against infection by avoiding intimate sexual contact…Fidelity
Practice ‘safe sex’
– e.g. use of condoms (properly used) decrease HIV
infections
Avoid using or sharing infected needles/ syringes
People with HIV accepting the responsibility never to place another person at
risk.
Role of Health care institutions e.g. AIDS unit/ counselling.
Ongoing research and educational programme on AIDS AND HIV
Mass Education
Screening of specimens from donors
– (e.g blood Semens, Tissues, Organs)
Development of medical/ social support
CHEMOTHERAPY
Zidovucline or AZT
α-inferon
Dr R Bholah, MIE