WORLD AIDS DAY December 1

• What is HIV• Significance of Red Ribbon• AIDS Awareness in India• Carriers of HIV• Symptoms of HIV Infection• Care for HIV Victims

WHAT IS HIV

HIV stands for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus.

It is a virus which attacks the body's immune system

It invades the helper T cells (CD4 cells) in the body of the host (defense mechanism of a person).

Preventable

Manageable

Not Curable

THE RED RIBBON The red ribbon is the universal symbol of awareness and support for those living with HIV. It aims to- alert governments in framing unbiased policies

for vulnerable population Spreads message that let HIV victims enjoy

equal status in the society. enhance social protection mechanism for

people with HIV

WORLD AIDS DAY: INDIA

India has recorded a 57 percent drop in number of new HIV infections during the last decade as per the latest figures from the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO).

FAQ’s for AIDS read more:

http://www.aids-india.org/faq1.htm#1

CARRIERS OF HIVHIV lives and reproduces in blood and other body fluids.

The following fluids can contain high levels of HIV: Blood Semen Breast milk Vaginal fluids Rectal mucous

Mode of Transmission

SexualBloodParenteralOthers

SYMPTOMS OF HIV INFECTION

Fever Chills Rash Night sweats Muscle aches Sore throat Fatigue Swollen lymph

nodes Ulcers in the

mouth

CARE FOR HIV VICTIMS

Allow them to get back to their work as soon as soon as he / she is physically fit, since HIV infection doesn’t require special rest

Provide them with a high protein, high vitamin diet and clean potable water (boiled)

Dispose off blood stained tampons and bandages properly, either by flushing or by disinfecting them first with detergent

Educate family members and friends about HIV / AIDS, if they already know the HIV status of the patient.

Don’t accuse them for getting infected, it doesn’t help

Don’t try to probe into when, where the person was infected

Don’t share razors, tooth brush and other sharp objects with infected person or for that matter with any body else

Don’t disclose the HIV status of infected person to friends, employer and insurance company

DO’S DON’TS