Download Understanding HIV and AIDS

•An infection in which
HIV enters the blood
and is multiplying in the
person’s cells.
• Helper T cells ~ white blood cells that
activate the immune response when a
pathogen enters the body.
•HIV attaches itself to helper T cells. The
virus forces the T cells to make copies of
the HIV, this is
•New viruses are released
from the T cells and they
attach to other cells.
The process of replication
then starts over.
Acquired
Immune
Deficiency
Syndrome
infections or illnesses that
take advantage of a
weakened immune
system.
Asymptomatic
(no symptoms)
could last up to
10 years
White blood cell
count drops below
200.
Opportunistic infections
appear
HIV
fatigue, weight loss, fever
and diarrhea
Possible mental
changes
Fluids that transmit the HIV virus:
•Blood
•Vaginal Fluid
•Semen
•Breast Milk
•Infected mother to her infant
before or
during the birth process or
breast feeding.
Testing for HIV:
HIV antibodies may be
found within
6 – 12 weeks after infected
with HIV.
Antibodies may not be
present until
6 – 12 months
after infection