A Brief History and Origin of HIV
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is believed to have originated in humans after the Simian Immunodeficiency Virus (SIV) from chimpanzees crossed over to people, most likely through the consumption of bushmeat in Central Africa. The earliest confirmed human case dates back to a blood sample from 1959 in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, but genetic analysis suggests HIV entered humans around 1920
How Is HIV Transmitted?
HIV is transmitted through contact with specific body fluids from a person who has HIV. These fluids include:
The most common routes of transmission are:
- Unprotected sex (anal or vaginal)
- Sharing needles or syringes (often related to drug use)
- From mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding
- (Rarely) Through contaminated blood products or organ transplants
HIV is not spread through casual contact such as hugging, kissing, sharing food, or insect bites
What Are the Symptoms?
HIV infection progresses in several stages, each with distinct symptoms:
- Acute HIV Infection (2-4 weeks post-exposure):
Many experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, rash, and sore throat. Some show no symptoms at all during this stage. - Chronic HIV Infection (Clinical latency):
The virus remains active but often causes few or no symptoms. Without treatment, this stage can last a decade or more, but people can still transmit the virus. - AIDS (Advanced stage):
The immune system is severely weakened. Signs include rapid weight loss, persistent fever, diarrhea, swollen lymph nodes, night sweats, fungal infections, and increased risk of serious infections and cancers like tuberculosis and lymphoma
Do’s and Don’ts of HIV Prevention: What You Should Know
HIV is a preventable virus. By adopting safe practices and avoiding risky behaviors, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of contracting or transmitting the virus. Here are some essential do’s and don’ts, explained clearly to help you stay protected.
Do’s
✅ Use condoms every time you have sex
✅ Get tested for HIV and STIs regularly
✅ Use clean, sterile needles and injecting equipment
✅ Seek medical guidance before using prevention tools
✅ Educate yourself and spread awareness
✅ Consider medical male circumcision
✅ Join or support HIV awareness programs and testing drives
Don’ts
❌ Don’t have unprotected sex
❌ Don’t skip doses or stop
❌ Don’t assume your or your partner’s status
❌ Don’t share needles, syringes
❌ Don’t self-medicate
❌ Don’t spread myths, stigma, or discriminate
❌ Don’t ignore evidence-based prevention strategies
❌ Don’t avoid seeking help, guidance, or reliable information
HIV Diagnosis at DNA Labs India
The HIV RNA PCR Qualitative Test detects HIV’s genetic material as early as 10–14 days post-exposure—before antibodies develop. It’s ideal for recent high-risk contact or early symptoms. Results are simple: “Detected” or “Not Detected”, enabling early treatment and peace of mind. Available at DNA Labs India, with fast turnaround and high accuracy—perfect for early diagnosis and effective HIV management.
Why Choose DNA Labs India?
- Trusted, NABL-certified lab
- Affordable prices
- Quick, accurate, and early results
- Home collection & testing convenience
- Supportive and private service
Public Awareness of HIV Virus in 2025
In 2025, global HIV awareness has reached record levels, with 87% of people living with HIV knowing their status. This progress reflects strong testing campaigns and education efforts worldwide.
Despite this, over 5 million remain unaware of their infection, mainly among vulnerable populations. Early diagnosis is key to treatment and prevention.
Continued public education, stigma reduction, and accessible testing remain vital to ending the HIV epidemic.
Take Charge of Your Health: Fast, Private, and Reliable HIV Testing Awaits
HIV is preventable, treatable, and manageable—but only if you know your status. With fast, reliable testing available at DNA Labs India, there’s no reason to wait. Protect yourself and others—get tested, stay informed, and live empowered.
Get tested, stay informed, and protect your health.
Book your HIV test now at dnalabsindia.com or call their support line for confidential assistance and home sample collection.
