Hiv/aids

HIV simply means Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It destroys the immune system of man. AIDS means Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. This implies that the virus is not inborn but acquired from a carrier. The virus weakens the immune system and lead to series of diseases that can kill the carrier. HIV/AIDS is one of the most dreaded contemporary social problems in Nigeria and Africa.

Causes of HIV/AIDS

1. Unprotected sexual intercourse with a carrier.
2. Sharing of objects like needles, injection syringes, barbing clippers, razor blades, pins, toothbrushes etc. that are not sterilized with a carrier.
3. Infected mother can transfer it to her unborn baby.
4. Infected blood transfusion.

Effects of HIV/AIDS

1. HIV/AIDS always result in series of illnesses.
2. It can eventually lead to death as it is incurable.
3. A lot of money is being used in search of the cure and management of HIV/AIDS.
4. A carrier can lose his job.
5. It can lead to divorce.
6. The carriers often suffer discrimination.
7. It creates emotional problems such as anxiety, fear and sadness for the carrier and his loved ones.

Prevention of HIV/AIDS

Since HIV/AIDS has no cure, it has to be prevented. The following measures can be taken to prevent the incidence of HIV/AIDS:

1. People who are single should abstain from sexual intercourse while married ones should be faithful to their spouse.
2. Those who cannot abstain from indiscriminate sexual intercourse should use condom.
3. Those who use sharp objects such as doctors, barbers, and hairdresser should sterilize the instruments.
4. Blood should be properly screened and made sure they are HIV/AIDS free before transfusion.