HIV+to+Aids

This page will help explain the differences between HIV and AIDS.

HIV is a virus that may cause the virus of AIDS.the virus of HIV can be transfered by mucous membranes or through contact with blood. This virus attacks the antibodies and damages the immune system enough the virus progresses to a more deadly type of virus AIDS. At that point a patiant has 9-12 months before they die. HIV however has steps to the process of becoming AIDS.

The first stage is called the window. It is called window because it reflect the window of time between infection and that which antibodies are devlop in a person. The HIV test looks for antibodies not the virus.

The second stage is called seroconversion. This is when the body begins to develop lots of antibodies to fight off the virus in the body. During this period a person may have flu like sympton. Also during this period is said to be very infectious.

The third stage is called symtom free. During this period a person may have no sympton what so ever. This can last any where from 6 months to well over ten years. The medical world is not sure why some people are living sympton free for so long.

The final stage is called AIDS. This is the period when TCELL drop to below 200 and the OI"S are present. So, as we see, HIV is a infection that will leads to AIDS. The body immune system is slowly being attacked until it is destroyed and can't fight off infections. Once this happens a person is said to have AIDS. AIDS is the final stage. http://msms.essortment.com/hivaidsdiffere_pdo.htm