HIV/AIDS, Chlamydia and Malaria

HIV/AIDS:

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a viral infection that primarily attacks the immune system, leading to AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome).
The virus is transmitted through body fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluid and breast milk.
Initial symptoms may include fever, sore throat and fatigue, which may resemble the flu.
As HIV progresses to AIDS, the immune system weakens, making the body susceptible to opportunistic infections and cancers.
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) can control the virus and prevent progression of the disease.

Chlamydia:

Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis.
Often it causes no symptoms in its early stages, which is why it is sometimes called a ‘silent’ infection.
If not treated, it can spread to other parts of the body and lead to complications, including infertility and ectopic pregnancy.
It is easy to treat with antibiotics if caught early.

Malaria:

Malaria is a parasitic disease which is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito.
Symptoms include fever, headache, chills and vomiting, and these usually appear between 10 and 15 days after the mosquito bite.
Malaria can lead to severe complications and death if not treated early. Antimalarial medications are used for treatment.
Preventative measures include the use of insecticides, bed nets and anti-malarial drugs.

General Defence and Treatment Principles:

The human body has numerous defences against diseases including the skin, immune system and beneficial gut bacteria.
Vaccines provide a way of ‘training’ the body’s immune system to fight off specific pathogens.
Antibiotics can kill bacteria or stop them from reproducing but are ineffective against viruses.
The overuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, where bacteria evolve to withstand the effects of the drugs.
A balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate rest and good hygiene practises can all contribute to a strong immune system, reducing the risk of disease.
Diagnosing diseases early often increases the chances of successful treatment.