HIV & Herpes

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and herpes are two distinct viral infections that have significant impacts on global public health. HIV, a retrovirus, primarily targets the immune system, specifically CD4+ T cells, and can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) if left untreated. Herpes, on the other hand, comprises a family of viruses, with herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) causing oral herpes and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) causing genital herpes. HIV is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells (also known as T cells), which play a crucial role in fighting infections. Without treatment, HIV can lead to the progressive weakening of the immune system, resulting in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), a condition characterized by severe opportunistic infections and malignancies.