History of HIV
HIV has grown by vast numbers since it was first detected in 1981. This disease effected mainly homosexual men out of Los Angeles and New York. These men were diagnosed with an uncommon disease called Pneumocystis Carinii known as, Pnemocystis Jiroveci. Pneumonia (PCP). They also developed rate skin tumors called Kapois's Sarcomas. The patients had a significant decrease of a cell called CD4, which is an important part of the immune systems that helps fight infection.
In 1983 the virus was described as the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that causes AIDS. This virus belongs to a group called Retro Viruses.
TESTING
Since then, there have been blood test available that measure antibodies to HIV that are the body's immune response to the HIV. This is still the best method of diagnosing HIV. The secondary test is with saliva and blood with results in 20 minutes.
Early detection is vital to your health and finances. The following is a quote from Dr. Slavenks,. " Anyone who's got HIV that we diagnose early enough -it may save anywhere between half a million and a millions dollars over the course of a lifetime."
There are many clinics in every state that do anonymous HIV Testing. Usually if you go to a clinic there is little to no fees for the test. And if there is a fee. It's minimal at best. If you are sexually active and have had more then 5 five partners. You should be tested at least once every 3 to 6 months, depending your partnerships/relationships.
HIV Transmittal
As of 2010, there are few people who don't know how HIV is transmitted. The following is for those that seek knowledge in this area. Here is a short review from:
- HIV is present to variable degrees in the blood and genital secretions of virtually all individuals infected with HIV, regardless of whether or not they have symptoms
- The spread of HIV can occur when these secretions come in contact with tissues such as those lining the vagina, anal area, mouth, or eyes (the mucus membranes), or with a break in the skin, such as from a cut or puncture by a needle.
- The most common ways in which HIV is spreading throughout the world include sexual contact, sharing needles, and by transmission from infected mothers to their unborn children.
- Fact: HIV infection can occur after even one sexual event.
Studies prove that within six weeks of exposure, the majority of infected people have positive results. Then after six months all of the infected patients will be positive for HIV. During this time some of the infected will exhibit "flu-like" or infectious mono-like " Illness for up to several weeks. This is the Primary Stage of Infection.
1. Fever,
2. Aching muscles and joints
3. Soar throat, and swollen glands in the neck
There are patients that will be Asymptomatic - (without symptoms) after the primary infection stage. The progression time is between eight and 10 years.
HIV is preventable
Don't ever share needles and always use protection during sex.
HIV In 2010
In 2010 HIV was still rising, with the highest rates of infection coming out of New York , DC, and the South. Mainly the Groups are Woman who are minorities and young teenagers and young adults ranging between 13 and 65 years old.
HIV IN 2012
In HIV is still highest among African Americans, although there has been a slight decline. HIV is spreading rapidly among some major cities such as
- New York
- Los Angeles
- San Francisco
HIV has been reported in all fifty states. Areas affected by HIV where poverty plays
significant roll are:
- Atlanta
- Washington
- DC
- Baltimore
- Newark
- NJ
- Harlem
- Wake County
- NC
Ranks among the general public:
- African Americans
- Hispanics
- Whites
- Asians
- American Indian
High risk categories are as follows:
- Gays
- Bisexual
- Men who have sex with men
- Intravenous drug use
- Anal sex
In closing we cannot forget that HIV is still very present in our society. We must practice safe sex when ever possible. Take all necessary precautions as well as HIV drug testing every 3 to 6 months if your sexually active. Check with our local clinic for anonymous testing in your area.
Written by Donna C. Ledesma
Copyright © 2012
All rights reserved
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