HIV 1 and HIV 2 are both retroviruses which disable the helper T cells of the immune system and causes AIDS.

 

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) causes the breakdown of the white blood cells in the human immune system resulting in the condition known as AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome).AIDS renders the body open to many types of secondary infections such as Pneumonia or Kaposi’s sarcoma due to the body’s inability to ward off infections.

 

The virus is transmitted by blood or from body fluids such as male semen. It can be transmitted between drug addicts sharing infected needles, or by heterosexual and homosexual activities. The disease is currently rampant in parts of Africa where many children are born carrying the disease from infected parents, and at this time there is no known cure for the retrovirus.

 

The disease is more common among young people. Initiatives are being taken to educate the young to avoid unprotected sex, and not to indulge in sexual practices if there is any risk involved, by knowing that their partners are free from the infection. The practice of sharing needles between injecting drug addicts is a cause for alarm in parts of Europe and Asia where it has been seen as the main method by which HIV is being spread in those areas.

 

The HIV problem is world wide with some areas being affected to a far greater degree than others. Since it exists in the younger populations, any interventions to prevent HIV/AIDS becoming a bigger problem must be targeted at the young. Interventions must be suited to meet the tendencies and characteristics of the young so that they might understand the lessons being taught about HIV/AIDS prevention, by the world authorities. Consideration will have to be given to the following when trying to institute such a program.

 

  • Country of origin, age and sex.
  • Whether single or married.
  • Religion, since in some countries both age and sexual practices are related to religion.
  • The social and economic status of both the individual and the country.

 

There are sections within the United Nations, of which UNFPA is one, which is foremost in leading the way in educating the young. UNFPA gives out information about condom programs, targets and teaches groups who are at risk, and serves its purpose of shielding reproductive and sexual health among the young. It tries to ensure that the young in many countries are adequately protected against HIV, other forms of sexually transmitted disease and unwanted pregnancy.

 

Part of the HIV prevention program involves forming youth/adult relationships where the young can discuss their needs and desires and make their feelings known about their own attitudes concerning sex and health.

 

No matter what the background of these youngsters they all need an intervention program which provides a health service oriented to youth, a supportive environment, and above all information relative to these services.

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