Human Immunodeficiency Virus
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Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Infections with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) results in a chronic life-threatening disease and over time may cause acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV is believed to have originated in Central Africa transmitted from chimpanzees to humans (CDC, 2017). As it spread globally from Africa, it is believed to have made its way into the United States (U.S.) in the mid 1970’s and was first reported to the CDC in 1981 (CDC, 2017). This paper will discuss the communicable disease, describe the determinants, discuss the factors, and explain the role of a Family Nurse Practitioner.
Description
HIV is a virus that when contracted inserts itself into the hosts DNA and over time results in destruction of the body’s immune system. HIV is a bloodbourne pathogen spread from one person to another, by transfers of blood, semen, or vaginal fluid, most commonly but not exclusively limited to sexual intercourse. Other modes of transfer include IV drug use or work-related exposure. It can also be spread through childbirth and infected breast milk (Wade, 2015). According to Wade (2015), one in six persons do not know they are infected with the virus. “Transmission of HIV first results in an acute infection, followed by an asymptomatic period that averages ten years” (Wade, 2015). It remains dormant in the lymph nodes, liver and spleen. As patients become symptomatic, the immune system weakens and opportunistic infections can occur (Wade, 2015). Although there are 2 strains, HIV1 and HIV2, they are transmitted the same way and both can lead to AIDS. HIV targets CD4 T-cells, which are needed to fight infections.
