Class 12 NEET Biology Human Health and Diseases Questions Part 1

(d) : AIDS (acquired immuno deficiency syndrome) a syndrome, is caused by the retrovirus HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). The virus destroys a subgroup of lymphocytes, the helper T-cells (or CD4 lymphocytes), resulting in suppression of the body's immune response. HIV is transmitted in blood, semen and vaginal fluid; the major routes of infection are unprotected vaginal and anal intercourse, intravenous drug abuse, and the administration of contaminated blood and blood products. A combination of antiviral drugs can delay the development of full-blown AIDS for many years but cannot fully care the disease.