Abstract

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a potent infectious agent that continues to pose significant health challenges worldwide. This article provides an overview of HIV as an infectious disease, examining its etiology, modes of transmission, and prevention strategies. HIV, a lentivirus, targets the immune system, leading to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) if left untreated. Transmission occurs through bodily fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk, primarily via unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing contaminated needles, mother-to-child transmission, and rarely through blood transfusions or organ transplants. Prevention efforts encompass condom use, harm reduction programs, HIV testing and counselling, antiretroviral therapy (ART), and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). A comprehensive approach integrating behavioral, biomedical, and structural interventions is essential in combating the spread of HIV and reducing its impact on global health.