Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains one of the most significant infectious diseases in Europe. It is associated with severe illness, high and ongoing treatment and care costs, substantial mortality, and reduced life expectancy. HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system, leading to lifelong and serious diseases with a long incubation period.
HIV infection is transmitted through sexual contact with an infected individual, sharing needles or syringes (primarily used for drug injections) with an infected person, or, less commonly (nowadays rare in countries with HIV antibody screening of blood), through the transfusion of infected blood or blood products. Infants born to HIV-infected women can become infected during pregnancy, childbirth, or through breastfeeding.
The end stage of infection, known as Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), is characterized by the destruction of the immune system. AIDS is defined by the presence of one or more “opportunistic” diseases (infections that occur due to the weakened immune system). Despite the existence of effective antiretroviral therapy (ART), the accessibility and sustainability of these treatments remain a challenge globally. Even in affluent countries, treatment gaps often exist, leaving many infected individuals unable to access or afford expensive therapies. In resource-limited settings, opportunities to access ART are even more limited, making the prevention and treatment of HIV infection more challenging.
Therefore, in addition to improving treatment methods and increasing accessibility, there is a need to strengthen prevention measures, including raising awareness of risky behaviors, providing safe injection equipment, implementing sexual health education, and more. Overall, HIV remains a significant public health issue that requires global collective efforts to address. While some progress has been made, ongoing efforts and innovation are still needed to eliminate the impact of this virus.
