CBSE Class 9 Answered

What is AIDS?

• AIDS stands for Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome.
• It is a disorder of the cell-mediated immune system in which there is considerable reduction in the number of helper T-cells which stimulate antibody production by B-cells.
• AIDS is caused by a retrovirus called Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

Mode of Transmission:

• Sexual intercourse
• Transfusion of blood and blood products
• Shared needles
• Mother to child through breastfeeding
• Organ transplant and artificial insemination
• At the time of parturition from mother to baby

Preventive Measures:

• Disposable needles and syringes should be used for injections.
• Safe sex - Condoms should be used during sexual intercourse.
• Use of thoroughly sterilised equipment by dentist or doctor.
• Routine screening of blood donors, organ donors and pregnant females.
• People should be well educated about AIDS by NGOs starting programmes or awareness campaigns. For example, National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) is educating people by awareness programmes, is controlling drug abuse and is distributing free condoms.