Human Immunodeficiency Virus -HIV-2 is a type of retrovirus. It is one of the root causes of AIDS. Like HIV-1, HIV-2 infects immune cells that affect or reduce the body’s natural ability to prevent diseases and infection.
HIV-2 is primarily found in West Africa and is less common than HIV-1, which is found worldwide. The transmission and progression of HIV-2 are similar to that of HIV-1, but this virus tends to progress more slowly to AIDS.
Most HIV-2 symptoms are similar to HIV-1. However, some symptoms can take longer to appear or be less serious, depending on the condition. People with HIV-2 often do not experience symptoms for several years after infection.
The signs of early HIV-2 infection may look like this:
As HIV-2 leads to AIDs that can cause more severe symptoms such as:
The Human Immunodeficiency Virus type-2 causes HIV-2 in people. HIV-2 attacks the immune system, specifically the CD4 cells, which play a critical role in fighting infections. Once the virus infects these cells, it injects its genetic material into the cell’s DNA and reproduces itself. When it happens, the health of the person starts worsening.
These are the factors that may increase the risk of contracting HIV-2.
Typically, a blood test is done to detect the presence of HIV-2 (antibodies). If the initial test is positive, a doctor does a confirmatory test to confirm the diagnosis. It’s crucial to get tested if there is any chance you have been exposed to the virus. Early diagnosis is critical for starting treatment and managing the virus effectively.
If not detected on time, the virus develops and attacks your body’s defence mechanism, leading to health complications like;
Like HIV-1, doctors use antiretroviral therapy (ART) to treat the virus initially. It slows down the damage virus has caused to the immune system.
ART aims to achieve and maintain an undetectable virus in the blood. This improves health and lessens the risk of transmitting the virus to others.
To prevent HIV-2, medical professionals recommend;
Understanding the factors that can increase the risk of HIV-2 and getting tested as soon as possible can help you prevent the infection.