The recent surge in HIV infections in Assam, primarily attributed to drug injection, has sparked significant concern among health authorities and policymakers. According to reports shared by Assam's Health Minister, Keshab Mahanta, the state has witnessed a troubling uptick in HIV/AIDS cases, with injecting drugs identified as the primary cause. Collaborative efforts between the government and NGOs have been initiated to support those affected by the disease, although patient anonymity remains a priority.
Root Causes of HIV Transmission
While drug addiction and trafficking are identified as the leading factors driving the increase in infections, it's essential to understand other modes of HIV transmission. HIV can spread through various means, including:
Unprotected Sexual Activity
Engaging in vaginal or anal intercourse without protection can lead to HIV transmission. Although oral sex carries a lower risk, open sores or tears in the genital area increase vulnerability to infection.
Sharing Needles
Sharing needles and syringes for drug injection significantly heightens the risk of HIV transmission. In environments where drug use is prevalent, the sharing of contaminated injection equipment poses a significant public health challenge.
Blood Transfusion
While rare, HIV transmission can occur through blood transfusions, particularly in settings where rigorous screening measures are lacking. Hospitals and blood banks typically screen donated blood for HIV to minimize this risk.
Also Read: Difference Between HIV And AIDS
Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Breastfeeding
Pregnant individuals living with HIV can transmit the virus to their babies during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. However, with timely treatment and medical interventions, the risk of mother-to-child transmission can be substantially reduced.
Recognizing HIV Symptoms
The symptoms of HIV and AIDS can vary depending on the individual's immune status and the stage of infection:
Primary Infection (Acute HIV)
Following exposure to the virus, some individuals may experience flu-like symptoms within 2 to 4 weeks. These symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle aches, rash, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, diarrhoea, and weight loss.
Chronic HIV Infection
During this stage, HIV continues to replicate within the body, often without noticeable symptoms. However, some individuals may experience persistent fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, diarrhoea, weight loss, oral thrush, and other opportunistic infections.
Symptomatic HIV Infection
As the virus progresses, individuals may develop more severe symptoms, including recurring infections, oral thrush, shingles, pneumonia, and unexplained weight loss.
Progression to AIDS
Without proper treatment, HIV infection can progress to AIDS, resulting in severe immune system damage. Opportunistic infections and cancers become more common, leading to symptoms such as chronic fatigue, persistent fever, recurrent infections, and drastic weight loss.
Also Read: What You Need To Know About Living With HIV
Risk Factors for HIV/AIDS
While HIV/AIDS can affect individuals of all demographics, certain factors increase susceptibility to infection:
Unprotected Sexual Activity
Having unprotected sex, particularly with multiple partners, significantly elevates the risk of HIV transmission.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Many STIs can create open sores or lesions, providing an entry point for HIV.
Injection Drug Use
Sharing needles and syringes during drug injection exposes individuals to infected blood, facilitating HIV transmission.
Bottomline
The rise in HIV infections in Assam underscores the critical importance of comprehensive prevention strategies and awareness initiatives. By addressing the root causes of transmission and promoting safer behaviours, communities can mitigate the spread of HIV/AIDS and safeguard public health.