HIV

The emergence of HIV/ AIDS stands as a pivotal moment in the world of infectious diseases,

significantly impacting global health. First identified in the early 1980s, HIV has since evolved into a

pandemic, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. This lentivirus, belonging to the retrovirus family,

has a complex and intriguing origin, rooted in the transmission of simian immunodeficiency viruses (SIVs)

from non-human primates to humans. Understanding the genesis of HIV is essential not only for

unraveling its evolutionary path but also for shaping effective prevention, treatment, and intervention

strategies. This paper aims to look at the history as well as the impact HIV has had over the years.

According to HIV.gov Human Immunodeficiency virus is a “virus that attacks cells that help the

human body fight infections and diseases, making a person more vulnerable to other infections and

diseases” (HIV.gov). When left untreated, HIV can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome or AIDS,

a condition where the immune system is severely compromised, leaving individuals susceptible to

infections and certain cancers. HIV is primarily transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse,

sharing of contaminated needles among drug users, from an infected mother to her child during

childbirth or breastfeeding, and through blood transfusions with contaminated blood. The virus has two

main types: HIV-1 and HIV-2, with HIV-1 being the most widespread globally. While there is no cure for

HIV, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can effectively control the virus, allowing individuals with HIV to live

long and healthy lives while reducing the risk of transmission to others. HIV remains a significant public

health challenge, requiring ongoing efforts in prevention, education, and research.

The actual cause for HIV is constantly up for debate but many scientists and professionals believe

it is derived from animals, specifically chimpanzees. They believe the origins of Human

Immunodeficiency Virus can be traced to a complex interplay between humans and non-human

primates. The prevailing theory suggests that the most common strain, HIV-1, originated from the

transfer of simian immunodeficiency virus or SIV from chimpanzees to humans in Central Africa (CDC).
This transmission likely occurred through the hunting and consumption of chimpanzee meat, exposing

humans to the primate virus. The cross-species transmission is estimated to have taken place in the early

20th century, leading to the establishment of HIV in human populations. Genetic analyses have provided

crucial insights into the evolutionary path of the virus, supporting the notion of a zoonotic origin.

Understanding how HIV started is pivotal for devising effective prevention strategies, treatment

approaches, and unraveling the complex dynamics of this global health challenge.

HIV does not discriminate and can infect individuals of any age, gender, race, or sexual

orientation. However, certain populations are disproportionately affected by the virus. In many regions,

particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, the majority of new HIV infections occur among heterosexual

individuals, with women accounting for a significant portion of those cases. Globally, men who have sex

with men, sex workers, transgender individuals, and people who inject drugs face higher HIV risk due to

various social, economic, and behavioral factors. Stigma, discrimination, and unequal access to

healthcare can further contribute to the spread of the virus within marginalized communities. In the

United States people of color see this unfair prejudice compared to white Americans. Understanding the

diverse factors influencing HIV transmission is crucial for developing targeted prevention and

intervention strategies that address the specific needs of various populations.

The symptoms of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) can vary across different stages of

infection. In the early stage, often referred to as acute or primary HIV infection, individuals may

experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and sore throat. These

symptoms may be mild and easily overlooked. As the infection progresses to the clinical latency stage,

which can last for years, individuals may not experience any noticeable symptoms. However, the virus is

actively replicating during this time. Based on research and study by the Mayo Clinic primary symptoms

associated with HIV include fever, sore throat, cough, etc. In the advanced stage of HIV infection, known

as Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, the immune system is severely compromised. Symptoms are
very similar and may include weight loss, chronic diarrhea, persistent fever, night sweats, and

opportunistic infections or cancers. It's important to note that the progression of HIV varies among

individuals, and some may remain asymptomatic for an extended period. Early detection and medical

intervention, including antiretroviral therapy (ART), are crucial in managing HIV and preventing the

progression to AIDS.

In conclusion, over the years of the HIV epidemic it has been marked by both challenges and

significant strides in understanding, prevention, and treatment. From its suspected origins in Central

Africa to its global impact, HIV has underscored the interconnectedness of public health on a worldwide

scale. The virus has affected diverse populations, emphasizing the importance of tailored approaches to

address varying social, economic, and cultural contexts. Advances in antiretroviral therapy with

medications such as Pep and Prep have transformed HIV from a once-lethal diagnosis to a manageable

chronic condition. However, persistent challenges such as stigma, unequal access to healthcare, and

ongoing transmission rates remind us that the fight against HIV is far from over. The path forward

requires continued research, education, and a collective commitment to fostering inclusivity, reducing

discrimination, and ensuring universal access to prevention and treatment resources. As we move

forward, the goal remains not only the control and eventual eradication of HIV but also the creation of a

world where health equity prevails, and every individual can live free from the burdens of this

preventable virus.
 Reference Page

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, June 30). About HIV/AIDS. Centers for Disease

Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/whatishiv.html#:~:text=Studies%20show

%20that%20HIV%20may,contact%20with%20their%20infected%20blood.

The global HIV/AIDS epidemic. KFF. (2023, September 26).

https://www.kff.org/global-health-policy/fact-sheet/the-global-hiv-aids-epidemic/amp/

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, July 29). HIV/AIDS. Mayo Clinic.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hiv-aids/symptoms-causes/syc-20373524

What are HIV and AIDS?. HIV.gov. (n.d.). https://www.hiv.gov/hiv-basics/overview/about-hiv-and-

aids/what-are-hiv-and-aids/