Bloodborne Pathogens: HIV

What causes HIV?

  • HIV is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency virus.
  • When HIV enters a person's bloodstream, it attacks and kills the T-helper cells. These cells are part of a group of white blood cells known as lymphocytes, which are essential to the body in fighting off infections.
  • As these cells are lost, so is the body's ability to fight infection.

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