Getting to know the ABCs of HIV and what all those different acronyms means can really make a difference when it comes to stopping the spread of HIV and improving treatment.
There are three key acronyms you should keep in mind: PEP, PrEP and ARVs. These are the acronyms of treatment offered which play a big part in stopping HIV from spreading, thereby improving the lives of those who have the virus.
HIV: HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS
What is HIV?
HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. Let's break it down:
Human: This virus only affects people.
Immunodeficiency: HIV weakens the body's ability to fight off diseases by destroying important cells, leaving the body more vulnerable.
Virus: It multiplies by taking over certain cells in the body. Unlike most viruses that the body can get rid of, HIV stays in the body for life because the immune system can't get rid of it.
AIDS: ACQUIRED IMMUNODEFICIENCY SYNDROME
What is AIDS?
AIDS is caused by HIV and is a serious medical condition where the immune system is severely compromised. A compromised immune system is unable to efficiently protect the body from infections and diseases. Individuals with AIDS therefore become more susceptible to various infections, leading to severe health problems that can be life-threatening, including certain types of cancers.
PEP: POST-EXPOSURE PROPHYLAXIS
What is PEP?
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is a short-term treatment that can prevent HIV infection after you might have been exposed to it. PEP involves taking a combination of drugs within 72 hours (preferably sooner) of being exposed, and continuing treatment for 28 days.
How does PEP work?
PEP stops the virus from growing inside the body. The drugs in PEP stop the virus from taking hold and spreading, which lowers the chance of becoming infected after being exposed.
Who should think about PEP?
PEP is suggested for people who have been exposed to HIV in the last 72 hours and are at risk. This includes healthcare workers who might get stuck with needles, partners of people who are HIV-positive and had a problem with a condom, or people in situations where the risk is high.
PREP: PRE-EXPOSURE PROPHYLAXIS
What is PrEP?
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) means taking special drugs before you might be exposed to HIV. Unlike PEP, PrEP is an ongoing treatment that gives you protection over time.
How does PrEP work?
PrEP keeps a steady level of special drugs in the body, stopping the virus from settling in and multiplying, even if you're exposed.
Who should think about PrEP?
PrEP is for those who are often at risk of contracting HIV. This includes people who have partners with HIV, those who have sex without protection with multiple partners, or people who use needles to inject drugs and then share these needles with others.
ARVS: ANTIRETROVIRAL DRUGS
What are ARVs?
Antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) are used to treat HIV infections. They lower the amount of the virus in the body which helps the immune system work better.
How do ARVs work?
ARVs target different stages of the HIV life cycle. Some stop the virus from getting into cells, others slow down its growth or its ability to blend into the body's genetic material.
Who should take ARVs?
ARVs are really important for treating HIV. They're given to anyone with the virus, no matter what stage it's at. ARVs make people healthier, improve their lives, and lower the chances of passing the virus to others.
In the fight against HIV, PEP, PrEP and ARVs all have their own jobs. PEP helps people who have recently been exposed to avoid getting infected. PrEP keeps people who are often at risk safe. ARVs are like the heart of HIV treatment, stopping the virus and improving lives while also preventing it from spreading.
Understanding these ways of dealing with HIV is really important for stopping new infections and helping those who are already affected. By using these strategies and spreading the word, we're getting closer to a world where HIV isn't such a big threat.
GetSavvi Health offers HIV counselling and treatment!
Join GetSavvi Health for access to our WHISPA programme where members can get HIV counselling, treatment and advice. It offers HIV prevention in the case of accidental exposure, where members can get treatment in the form of PEP and ARVs.
To find out more, join here or get in touch at apply@getsavvi.co.za. Talk to one of our experts to learn all about the benefits and plans.