Module 5: HIV/AIDS Issues: An Approach To Managing The Epidemic - Introduction

This presentation is an illustration of the type of information which is presented to line managers.

INTRODUCTION: BIOLOGY OF HIV/AIDS:

The HIV virus:

simple organism - cannot reproduce on its own must attach to cells of the host to reproduce attaches to cells which possess CD4 receptor sites T - helper cells (now called CD4 cells) have the most sites.

T-Helper cells:

T-helper cells are regulators and control the immune system. Their functions are to protect the body from invasion of many organisms, such as TB, viruses and fungi; clear away certain cancer cells; produce other chemicals required in the immune response; influence the production of other immune-active cells required in the immune response. The picture on the left shows a T4-helper cell being attacked by HIV particles. Killing T-helper cells is the equivalent of knocking out the central command of an army.

How does HIV work?

The mechanism of action of the HIV virus may be summarised in the diagram below:

The disease process:

At first, relatively few new viruses are produced and little damage is done. Billions of T-helper cells are present.

After 3 -7 years however, huge amounts of viral particles are circulating and infecting cells. A large number of the immune cells are destroyed and this leads to the reduction in the person's immunity.

In turn, this leads to:

• metabolic changes
• other organisms which are harmless in healthy individuals causing disease and death. These are known as opportunistic infections.
• cancer.

Transmission issues:

HIV is found in varying concentrations or amounts in blood, semen, vaginal fluid, breast milk, saliva, and tears.

HIV has not been found in sweat.

Something to think about...: What does this mean to your organisation?

Therefore routine work, including food handling is not an issue (unless you own a brothel!!)

Treatment:

Treatment consists in attempting to counter the rising probability of infection as the body's defence system breaks down, interventions are designed to:

• boost the immune system;
• prevent opportunistic infections such as TB;
• prevent the virus from replicating;
• Complex issues need to be managed:
  • medical
  • emotional
  • social
  • financial

REFERENCES:

1. ING Barings Report for May 2000
2. South African Business Coalition on HIV & AIDS. 2003