HIV II stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type II. It is a subtype of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which is a lentivirus that attacks the immune system of humans, weakening their ability to fight off infections and diseases. HIV II is less common than the predominant subtype, HIV I, and is primarily found in West Africa.
HIV II has similar characteristics to HIV I, but there are some distinct differences between the two. It is known to progress more slowly compared to HIV I, meaning that the development of AIDS may take longer. Additionally, HIV II is generally less transmissible than HIV I. However, HIV II can still lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), the advanced stage of the infection, if left untreated.
The modes of transmission of HIV II are similar to those of HIV I and primarily include unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing of contaminated needles and syringes, and transmission from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding.
To diagnose HIV II infection, specialized tests that specifically target this subtype are required, as the standard tests used for HIV I may not be able to detect it accurately.
Treatment for HIV II consists of antiretroviral therapy (ART), which involves a combination of drugs aimed at controlling the virus and preventing its progression. Similar to HIV I, there is no cure for HIV II, and the goal of treatment is to manage the virus, enhance immune function, and improve the quality of life for those infected.
