HIV/AIDS(I) JSS1 Basic Science Lesson Note

 HIV/AIDS (I)

Meaning of HIV and AIDS

HIV means Human Immunodeficiency Virus, while AIDS means Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. HIV/AIDS is a deadly disease that has no cure yet. The virus, HIV, is the cause of AIDS. This virus attacks the body’s immune defense system and breaks it down.

Differences between HIV and AIDS

HIV is the virus that causes AIDS. A person with AIDS is said to be HIV positive while a person who is HIV negative does not have the disease, AIDS. Thus, HIV is the causative agent of the disease called AIDS.

Mode of transmission of HIV and AIDS

The following are some of the ways by which HIV/AIDS can be transmitted:

Sexual intercourse
Use of contaminated sharp objects
Transfusion of infected blood
Use of infected injection needles and syringes
Piercing the body (e.g., ear-piercing, circumcision, tribal mark, etc.)  From infected mother to baby

Symptoms of HIV and AIDS

1. Weight loss
2. Fever
3. Frequent tiredness
4. Diarrhea
5. Cold sores all over the body
6. Swollen glands

Prevention of HIV and AIDS

1. Abstinence
2. Avoid sharing sharp objects
3. Don’t have unprotected sex
4. Avoid having multiple sexual partners

Classwork 

1. Give the full meaning of the following:
   HIV: ___________________________________
   AIDS: __________________________________