HIV- AIDS Education

Timeline:  Infection  Incubation  Asymptomatic Stage – T-cells above 500  Symptomatic Stage – T-cells b/w  Full Blown AIDS – T-cells below 200

Symptoms  AIDS Dementia Complex  Unexplained weight loss  Recurring fever, night sweats  Lesions  Karposi’s Sarcoma  Unexplained persistent tiredness / fatigue  Chronic diarrhea  Swollen glands  Oral Thrush  Opportunistic Infections

Mode of Transmission  Blood  Semen  Vaginal Fluid  Breast Milk

Prevention:  Avoid unprotected sexual intercourse, contact with a contaminated person.  Avoid coming into contact with contaminated blood.  Avoid IV Drug Use  Avoid Risky Behaviors  Avoid Intoxication…decreases inhibitions

Treatment:  AZT  AIDS Cocktail  MEO Inhibitors

Reasons for AIDS epidemic:  Sexual promiscuity  IV Drug Use  Lack of education  Long incubation period  No Cure

Testing  Western Blot or Elisa  Blood Tests, Oral Swabs  Identifies the presence of Antibodies  99% effective/accurate  Confidential vs. Anonymous  Confidential- give name  Anonymous- NO name just a number