Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): Overview and Treatment

Human Immunodeficiency Virus, or HIV, is a virus that attacks the immune system, weakening the body’s ability to fight infections and diseases. If left untreated, HIV can develop into Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), the most advanced stage of infection, where the immune system is severely damaged and unable to defend against serious illnesses.

How HIV Is Transmitted

HIV is primarily transmitted through the following methods:

• Unprotected sexual contact with an infected person
• Sharing needles, syringes, or other injecting equipment
• From mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding
• Contaminated blood transfusions or organ transplants (rare in the UK due to strict screening protocols)

HIV Myths: What It Doesn’t Spread Through

HIV is not spread by everyday contact such as:

• Hugging, shaking hands, or sharing food or drink
• Using toilets or swimming pools
• Sneezing or coughing

The virus is fragile and does not survive long outside the human body.

Treatment and Management

While there is currently no cure for HIV, it is now considered a manageable long-term condition. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) allows people with HIV to live long, healthy lives. Modern treatments can reduce the viral load to undetectable levels, meaning HIV cannot be passed on through sexual contact.

Early Diagnosis and Testing

Early diagnosis is essential for successful treatment and to prevent transmission. HIV testing is free and confidential through the NHS, sexual health clinics, and home-testing services. Testing is recommended for individuals at higher risk or those with concerns about possible exposure.

Trends in HIV Diagnoses in the UK

In recent years, there has been a slight increase in new HIV diagnoses in the UK, particularly among heterosexual men and women. Diagnoses also rose slightly among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. However, the majority of people living with HIV are receiving treatment, and most of those on treatment are virally suppressed.

Late Diagnoses: A Concern

Efforts are ongoing to reduce the number of late HIV diagnoses, as individuals diagnosed late are at greater risk of serious health complications and early mortality. Inequalities remain a concern, particularly among some ethnic minority groups and those with limited access to healthcare or testing services.

Efforts to End New HIV Transmissions by 2030

The UK is working towards the goal of ending new HIV transmissions by 2030. Key strategies include:

• Wider access to routine HIV testing, including opt-out testing in emergency departments
• Increased uptake and availability of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for those at higher risk
• Public education campaigns to encourage testing and reduce stigma

The Future Outlook

HIV continues to be a significant public health issue, but the outlook has improved dramatically due to early testing and effective treatment. With continued awareness, support, and access to care, it is possible to eliminate new HIV transmissions in the UK within the next decade.