What are opportunistic infections associated with AIDS?

Opportunistic infections are illnesses caused by organisms that typically do not cause disease in individuals with a healthy immune system but can become deadly in people with AIDS due to their weakened immune defenses. Some common opportunistic infections associated with AIDS include:

Candidiasis

This yeast infection can affect the mouth, esophagus, or vagina in individuals with AIDS.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

CMV is a virus that can cause severe illness in individuals with weakened immune systems, leading to conditions like retinitis.

Tuberculosis (TB)

People with AIDS have a higher risk of developing active TB, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP)

PCP is a common opportunistic infection in people with AIDS and can cause severe respiratory symptoms.

Toxoplasmosis

Caused by a parasite, toxoplasmosis can lead to brain infections in individuals with AIDS.

Prevention strategies for AIDS-related infections include antiretroviral therapy to keep the viral load low, prophylactic medications for specific infections, vaccinations, and practicing good hygiene to reduce the risk of exposure to pathogens.