**HIV vs. AIDS: Understanding the Distinctions**
Many individuals often confuse HIV with AIDS, thinking they are the same. While HIV and AIDS are indeed connected, it is important to understand that they are not interchangeable terms. So, what differentiates HIV from AIDS?
HIV vs. AIDS: What’s the Difference?
HIV is a virus that can undermine your immune system. This virus can potentially progress into AIDS over several years. However, not everyone who contracts HIV will develop AIDS. Essentially, HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is the agent responsible for weakening the immune system. In contrast, AIDS or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome is the advanced stage of this condition, which arises due to an untreated or advanced HIV infection.
Without antiretroviral therapy (ART) under medical supervision, HIV can develop into AIDS within about 10 to 15 years. As the disease progresses, the immune system’s efficacy severely diminishes or ceases entirely.
More specifically, AIDS is diagnosed when the number of CD4 cells falls below a certain threshold. CD4 cells, a type of white blood cell, are crucial for fighting infections.
Once infected with HIV, the virus remains in your body for life. While there is currently no cure for HIV, medications are available that can reduce the viral load and help individuals maintain their health. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) can significantly diminish or even prevent the transmission of the virus to others.
HIV can be transmitted through infected blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. The virus can spread through sexual contact, sharing needles, and from a mother to her baby during pregnancy. Despite the lack of a cure, medications exist that can prevent the virus from multiplying and transmitting. Nonetheless, experts emphasize that prevention is the most effective strategy against HIV. Practicing safe sex and steering clear of drug use involving needles are wise preventative measures everyone should adopt.