02/02/2024
HIV and AIDS are serious conditions caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV targets the body's white blood cells, weakening the immune system, and making it easier to get sick. People with AIDS have a very weak immune system and are at high risk for infections and certain cancers. The early symptoms of HIV can include fever, fatigue, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. Later symptoms can include weight loss, diarrhea, and night sweats. However, not everyone with HIV has symptoms, and not all of these symptoms are specific to HIV.
In the case of AIDS, symptoms can include extreme fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, fever, and diarrhea. Again, not everyone with AIDS will have these symptoms, and some people with these symptoms may not have AIDS. It is important to note that HIV/AIDS is transmitted through bodily fluids like blood, breast milk, semen, and vaginal fluids. However, people cannot become infected through ordinary day-to-day contact like kissing or sharing food.
The only way to know for sure if someone has HIV is through testing. There is no cure for HIV/AIDS; however, there are treatments that can help people live long healthy lives such as PrEP (prophylaxis) and PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis). If you think you may have been exposed to HIV it's important to talk to your doctor right away about PEP as it's a medication that can prevent HIV infection if taken within 72 hours of exposure.
Using condoms correctly every time you have s*x is the best way to prevent HIV. It is recommended that individuals always use a male or female condom during s*x to stay safe from contracting the virus. Additionally getting tested for HIV and other STIs regularly is also important in preventing transmission of the virus. It's also crucial for individuals to talk to their healthcare provider about their risks and follow their guidance.
Please note that the Ghana AIDS Commission has released statistics indicating that a total of 354,927 individuals are currently living with HIV/AIDS in the country. Of this number, 115,235 are males and 239,692 are females.
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