Expository Essay: HIV/AIDS – JSS1 English Lesson Note (Second Term)

HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system by destroying CD4 cells, also called T-helper cells. AIDS is the last stage of HIV infection, when the immune system is too weak to fight infection. HIV can be treated and managed with antiretroviral treatment, but there is currently no cure.

Behavioural objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. State what HIV and AIDS stand for.
2. Explain how HIV affects the immune system.
3. List the body fluids in which HIV is found and say how HIV is not passed on.
4. Describe ways of preventing HIV.
5. Explain the difference between HIV and AIDS.
6. Write an article on HIV/AIDS using the facts in the note.

What is HIV?

HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. It is a virus that attacks the immune system, which is our body’s natural defence against illness. The virus destroys a type of white blood cell in the immune system called a T-helper cell and copies itself inside these cells. T-helper cells are also referred to as CD4 cells.

How does HIV affect the body?

As HIV destroys more CD4 cells and makes more copies of itself, it gradually breaks down a person’s immune system. This means someone living with HIV who is not receiving treatment will find it harder and harder to fight off infections and diseases.

If HIV is left untreated, it may take up to 10 or 15 years for the immune system to be so severely damaged that it can no longer defend itself at all. However, the speed at which HIV progresses will vary depending on age, health and background.

How is HIV passed on?

HIV is found in:

• semen
• blood
• vaginal and anal fluids
• breast milk

HIV cannot be transmitted through sweat, saliva or urine.

How can HIV be prevented?

• Use male condoms or female condoms during sex. This is the best way to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
• If you inject drugs, always use a clean needle and syringe, and never share equipment.
• If you are pregnant and living with HIV, the virus in your blood could pass into your baby’s body, or after birth through breastfeeding. Taking HIV treatment virtually eliminates this risk.

Why are testing and treatment important?

There is effective antiretroviral treatment available, so people with HIV can live a normal, healthy life. The earlier HIV is diagnosed, the sooner treatment can start, leading to better long-term health. So regular testing for HIV is important.

Although there is currently no cure for HIV, with the right treatment and support people with HIV can live long and healthy lives. To do this, it is especially important to take treatment correctly and deal with any possible side effects. Treatment means that more people are staying well, with fewer people developing AIDS.

What is AIDS?

AIDS stands for acquired immune deficiency syndrome. It is not a virus. It is a set of symptoms (a syndrome) caused by HIV. AIDS is also referred to as advanced HIV infection or late-stage HIV.

A person is said to have AIDS when their immune system is too weak to fight off infection and they develop certain defining symptoms and illnesses. This is the last stage of HIV, when the disease is very advanced. If left untreated, it will lead to death.

HIV and AIDS compared

Evaluation

Study the article above, then write an article on the same topic.

Assignment

In your own words, write a short paragraph explaining the difference between HIV and AIDS.