What Does
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Mean?
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a disease that diminishes immune system function to the point of non-function. AIDS is the final stage of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and symptoms of this stage include having a T-cell count below 200 cells/µL, severe weight loss and constant pulmonary infections. HIV/AIDS is something that is acquired; it is not hereditary.
Safeopedia Explains Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome
HIV/AIDS is contracted through human fluid contact. If one party is infected, it can be passed to the other. Medical professionals are at a higher risk of contracting HIV/AIDS. If used needles and syringes are not properly disposed of, staff could contract what contaminants are in the patients’ blood. Those working in such professions must regularly get themselves tested to ensure they do not contract such viruses. There is currently no cure or vaccine for HIV/AIDS, but there are antiretroviral medications that can be taken to battle symptoms and raise life expectancy.