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World AIDS Day 2023: The global health campaign of World AIDS Day is observed on December 1 annually to raise awareness about AIDS and encourage people affected by it to live a fear-free life. This year, World AIDS Day is being celebrated with the theme of ‘Let Communities Lead.’ On the occasion of World AIDS Day 2023, Jagran English spoke to Dr Rahul Bhargava, Principal Director & Chief BMT, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram about the treatment of AIDS and whether blood transfusions are safe.
Watch the video below for myths and facts about AIDS:
Blood Transfusions For Treating AIDS
According to Dr Bhargava, the primary treatment for HIV/AIDS involves antiretroviral therapy (ART), a combination of medications that target the HIV and slow down its progression. ART helps to suppress viruses, restore immune function, and improve overall health. Individuals living with HIV/AIDS need to work closely with healthcare professionals to manage their condition and receive appropriate medical care.
He said, “Blood transfusions are generally safe and effective treatments for a variety of medical conditions, including AIDS. However, there is a minimal risk of contracting HIV through a blood transfusion. This is because HIV can be transmitted through blood, and even though blood donations are carefully screened for HIV, there is a small window of time during which the virus may not be detectable by tests.”
While concluding, Dr Bhagava said that blood transfusion can be given to AIDS patients, but their blood can not be given to any other patient. According to safe blood practices, every unit of blood is tested for hepatitis B, C, and HIV through Elisa and NAT (Nucleic Acid Testing) which can pick up infection in the window period. Blood transfusion practice is becoming safe as most blood banks now rely on voluntary donations.