AIDS awareness and support services suspended in Sikkim

HIV/AIDS awareness and support services have been stopped in Sikkim after the staff of the department joined the nationwide ongoing strike. Sikkim AIDS Control Employees Association struck work since

By: Editorial Team | | Updated: February 17, 2014 5:22 pm

HIV/AIDS awareness and support services have been stopped in Sikkim after the staff of the department joined the nationwide ongoing strike. Sikkim AIDS Control Employees Association struck work since February 4 in support of the ongoing pan-India strike called by All India AIDS Control Employees Association demanding fulfillment of its six-point charter of demands. (Read: HIV/AIDS – causes, symptoms and complications)

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that destroys or impairs the function of the body’s immune system making the person more susceptible to infections. Unless treated, it develops into full-blown acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). The virus infects humans when it comes in contact with tissues lining the vagina, anal area, mouth and eyes, or through a break in the skin. There are two main types – HIV-1 and HIV-2. HIV-2 is typically found in Africa and parts of Asia. HIV-2 is typically found in Africa and parts of Asia. Asia can thus no longer be considered free of HIV-2, and testing for HIV-2 appears mandatory, at least in India. Worldwide, when people refer to HIV they are usually referring to HIV-1.

What is AIDS?

Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) isn’t a disease in itself. It is a condition in caused by HIV in which the body’s immune system fails to battle foreign microorganisms. This leads to various opportunistic infections and/or certain cancers. It is the most advanced stage of HIV infection. (Read: HIV/AIDS – Causes, Symptoms, Tests, Treatment & More)

With inputs from PTI

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Published : February 6, 2014 4:41 pm | Updated:February 17, 2014 5:22 pm

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