Definition of HIV

HIV is a virus, which progressively evolves, the ultimate stage being AIDS. It attacks the cells of the immune system (T4 or CD4 lymphocytes) and gradually destroys them. If left untreated, serious illness can occur.

Transmission

During unprotected sex with an infected person through semen, blood, vaginal secretions, and pre-ejaculatory fluid.
Through blood: Through needle sharing among injection drug users.
Mother-to-child transmission in-utero and through breast milk.

TREATMENTS

Antiretroviral Treatments

Antiretroviral treatments, or ARVs, are drugs that block the multiplication of the virus and thus reduce the amount of virus in the blood. The benefits of taking the treatment are numerous, but above all they allow people to live in good health and have a life expectancy similar to that of non-carriers.

PEP

PEP is an emergency treatment offered to people who have had blood or sexual contact with someone who is HIV positive. The treatment is available in public hospitals and should be taken as soon as possible or 48 hours after risk-taking.

PREP

Prep is for people who do not have HIV and consists of taking a drug to avoid getting infected. Like any medication, Prep must be prescribed by a doctor, requires follow-up, and is available at all hospital-based HIV care centers.

Definition of Hepatitis C

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, most often caused by a viral infection. There are several types of hepatitis. Hepatitis C (HCV) is a virus that is transmitted mainly through the blood and damages the liver. It can live in the open air for more than 7 days

Transmission

Hepatitis C is transmitted mainly through blood. During injections with contaminated needles or injection equipment.
Tattoos and piercings with non-sterile equipment.
Through sharp objects (razors, toothbrushes, tweezers, clippers).
Accidental puncture wounds with contaminated equipment. Mother-to-child transmission (when the mother is infected). Treatment

TREATMENTS

Antiviral Drugs

Treatment exists and consists of taking antiviral drugs for a period of 6 to 12 months to try to eliminate the virus. The cure rate is about 90%, a test must then be performed within 3 months after the treatment.

Definition of Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that can lead to very serious complications when left untreated, but it is simple to cure with the right treatment. Syphilis spreads from person to person via skin or mucous membrane contact.

Transmission

Through contact with a syphilis sore during vaginal, anal or oral sex. Sores are found on or around the penis, vagina or anus, or in the rectum, on the lips or in the mouth.

Stages and symptoms

Syphilis is divided into stages with different signs and symptoms associated with each stage. A person with primary syphilis usually has a sore or sores at the site where the infection originated. These sores are usually (but not always) firm, round and painless. Signs and symptoms may not be noticed.

TREATMENTS

Antibiotics

Syphilis can be treated with the right antibiotics. However, the treatment may not repair the damage already done by the infection. Caution: Having syphilis once will not prevent you from getting it again.