HIV

Human Immunodeficiency Virus, also known as HIV, is a virus that attacks the immune system. It invades our T cells and then makes more copies of itself. It then destroys them and our immune system can no longer fight of other infections or diseases, which can lead to AIDS. There are three major routes it is transferred by. The first route is sexual intercourse through the vaginal, rectal, or penile tissues. The second route is a direct injection with HIV-contaminated drugs, needles, syringes, blood or blood products. The third major route HIV can be transmitted is from an HIV-infected mother to the fetus in the uterus or even through breast-feeding. Once the virus is transmitted to someone else, it attaches immune system cell called a dendritic cell. These cells are located by the mouth, vagina, rectum, and penis. The cells then transport the virus from the where the infection is to the lymph nodes where it also infects other immune system cells. Once inside the cell, the virus turns RNA into DNA, and then makes its way to the cells nucleus. The HIV weakens the immune system. The infected HIV cells convert into the messenger RNA then it is transferred outside the nucleus and is used to make more HIV infected cells. Although almost anyone can receive the HIV virus at any age, some people, who are naturally HIV immune, do exist. Trafton (2010) states that they have a HLA B57 gene that creates more white blood cells that defend the body from infections and viruses, also known as T cells. T cells connect strongly to more of the HIV protein than to the people who do not have the same gene. The T cells are more likely notice and stop the cells that include HIV proteins. Therefore making the person naturally HIV immune because the T c... ... middle of paper ... ...essionally at a healthcare place than doing it myself at home. I feel it is more trustworthy than an at home HIV test. Also, one person put of five thousand can get a false positive answer. But one in twelve can get a false negative answer as well. Taking an HIV test at a healthcare center is more safe and trustworthy about being positive or Works Cited Website. (2013). The basics of HIV prevention. Retrieved from http://aidsinfo.nih.gov/education-materials/fact-sheets/20/48/the-basics-of-hiv-prevention Website. (2009) HIV Lifecycle. Retrieved from http://aids.gov/hiv-aids-basics/just-diagnosed-with-hiv-aids/hiv-in-your-body/hiv-lifecycle/ Kaplen, Karen. (2013, October 13). Baby 'cured' of HIV: New details offer hope for other patients. Los Angeles Times. McNeil Jr., Donald. G. (2012, July 3). Rapid H.I.V. Home Test Wins Federal Approval. The New York Times.