HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) attacks the immune system, making it difficult to fight off disease. If untreated, it can develop into AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), the final stage marked by severe immune damage, dangerously low white blood cell counts, and opportunistic illnesses. Because HIV inserts its instructions into a person’s DNA in reverse, it is classified as a retrovirus.

HIV spreads through infected blood transfusions, shared needles, unsafe sexual contact, and from parent to child during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding. It can also be contracted through practices such as tattooing, ear piercing, or using contaminated razors and combs.

Treatment involves Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), a daily combination of medicines that does not cure HIV but enables people to live long, healthy lives while reducing the risk of transmission. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), meanwhile, is a preventive medicine for HIV-negative individuals at high risk, though it offers no protection against other sexually transmitted diseases or pregnancy.

HIV symptoms may include fatigue, fever, sore throat, swollen glands, joint or muscle pain, rash, nausea, and diarrhoea, but testing is the only reliable way to confirm infection. Knowing one’s status is essential to protect both oneself and others.

ART centres across Pakistan provide free medicines, HIV confirmation, CD4 and viral load testing, counselling, emergency care, and post-exposure treatment for healthcare workers. In Punjab, the Active Help Organisation (AHO), working with PACP and UNDP, is raising awareness, offering treatment, and supporting communities in cities including Okara, Lahore, Sheikhupura, Faisalabad, Multan, and Bahawalpur. AHO also contributes to national health strategies as part of Pakistan’s CCM Oversight Committee.

HIV is preventable, but prevention requires awareness. Breaking the silence is the first step. Every action counts.

HINA RIAZ,

Okara.