Introduction: What is HIV?
HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically CD4 T-cells, which help the body fight infections. If untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), the most advanced stage of infection. Understanding HIV is crucial for early detection, prevention, and effective treatment.
At DNA Labs India, we provide accurate and early HIV testing, including HIV RNA PCR, to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.
HIV-1 vs HIV-2: Types of HIV
HIV has two main types: HIV-1 and HIV-2. Both cause HIV infection, but they differ in origin, prevalence, and progression.
HIV-1
- Most common type globally (~95% of infections).
- Origin: Derived from a chimpanzee virus (SIVcpz) in Central Africa.
- Subtypes/Groups: Multiple subtypes (M, N, O, P); Group M caused the global pandemic.
- Transmission: Same as general HIV (sex, blood, mother-to-child, contaminated needles).
- Progression: Faster progression to AIDS if untreated.
- Geography: Worldwide.
HIV-2
- Less common, mostly in West Africa.
- Origin: Derived from SIVsmm virus in sooty mangabey monkeys.
- Transmission: Same routes, but less easily transmitted sexually.
- Progression: Slower progression to AIDS; many remain asymptomatic for years.
- Geography: Primarily West Africa, rare globally.
Key Differences:
| Feature | HIV-1 | HIV-2 |
|---|---|---|
| Prevalence | Worldwide (~95%) | West Africa (less common) |
| Transmission | More efficient | Less efficient |
| Disease Progression | Faster | Slower |
| Subtypes | Multiple (M, N, O, P) | Few (A–H) |
| Global Impact | Pandemic | Localized |
HIV Symptoms: Early and Late Signs
1. Acute HIV Infection (2–4 weeks after exposure)
- Fever, fatigue, sore throat
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Rash
2. Chronic HIV Infection (Latent Stage)
- Often symptom-free
- Virus continues damaging the immune system
3. AIDS (Advanced HIV Stage)
- Rapid weight loss, recurrent infections
- Persistent fever, night sweats
- Chronic diarrhea
- Neurological issues
How HIV Spreads
HIV is transmitted through specific body fluids: blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk.
Common Transmission Routes
- Unprotected sexual contact
- Sharing needles or syringes
- Mother-to-child (pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding)
- Rarely, contaminated blood products
Myth-Busting: HIV cannot spread through casual contact, food, saliva, sweat, or insect bites.
HIV Testing: Early Detection and Diagnosis
Early HIV testing is critical for treatment and prevention. There are several types of HIV tests:
1. Antibody Tests
- Detect antibodies your body produces against HIV.
- Done with blood or oral fluid.
- Common rapid and ELISA tests.
2. Antigen/Antibody Combo Tests (4th Generation)
- Detect both HIV antibodies and p24 antigen.
- Can detect infection 2–4 weeks after exposure.
3. HIV RNA PCR Qualitative Test
- Detects HIV genetic material (RNA) in blood.
- Provides a “Yes or No” result.
- Detects HIV earlier than antibody tests (10–33 days post-exposure).
- Useful for newborns of HIV-positive mothers and high-risk exposure cases.
4. HIV RNA Quantitative Real-Time PCR (Viral Load Test)
- Measures the amount of HIV RNA (viral load).
- Helps monitor treatment effectiveness and disease progression.
- High viral load → active replication; undetectable viral load → ART effective.
HIV Treatment: Antiretroviral Therapy (ART)
While there is no cure, ART can:
- Suppress viral replication
- Restore immune function
- Prevent progression to AIDS
- Reduce viral load to undetectable, making sexual transmission virtually zero (U = U)
Treatment is most effective when started early.
Preventing HIV: How to Stay Safe
Practical Prevention Tips
- Consistently use condoms
- Consider PrEP for high-risk individuals
- Use PEP within 72 hours after exposure
- Avoid sharing needles
- Get regular HIV testing
Food, Animals, and Casual Contact
- HIV cannot spread through food, water, or animal contact.
- Blood on surfaces or food does not cause infection.
HIV Myths vs Facts
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| HIV spreads through saliva or sweat | FALSE – HIV cannot survive in saliva or sweat |
| HIV can be caught from sharing food | FALSE – HIV is not transmitted via food |
| Only certain people can get HIV | FALSE – anyone exposed can be infected |
Conclusion
At DNA Labs India, we provide comprehensive HIV testing, including HIV-1 and HIV-2 detection, HIV RNA PCR tests, and viral load monitoring. Early detection, safe practices, and effective treatment empower individuals to live long, healthy lives while reducing transmission risk.
