The global challenge of HIV/AIDS remains one of the most pressing public health issues today. According to the latest data from UNAIDS, around 38.4 million people worldwide are living with HIV/AIDS, underlining the need for not only medical intervention but also comprehensive awareness, education, and social change. Despite the significant strides made in treatment and prevention, the confusion surrounding the relationship between HIV and AIDS still persists.

Young people have become influential advocates in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Research from UNICEF shows that youth-led initiatives can lower HIV transmission rates by as much as 45% in targeted communities. These young activists utilize digital platforms and peer-to-peer education to dispel myths, promote safe practices, and foster supportive environments for those affected by HIV/AIDS.

Dr Gowri Kulkarni, an expert in Internal Medicine, explains that while the terms HIV and AIDS are often used interchangeably, they are distinctly different. "HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, whereas AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is a condition that occurs when HIV severely damages the immune system," she clarifies. To understand the implications of these differences, it's important to explore the fundamental distinctions between the two.

1. HIV is a Virus; AIDS is a Syndrome

HIV is the virus responsible for attacking the body’s immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells, which are crucial for the body’s defense against infections. As HIV progresses, it destroys these cells, weakening the immune system over time. If left untreated, this continuous damage can lead to AIDS.

AIDS, on the other hand, is a syndrome, not a virus. Dr Kulkarni further elaborates that AIDS is a collection of symptoms and illnesses that emerge when the immune system is severely compromised due to prolonged HIV infection. It represents the most advanced stage of HIV, and is characterized by very low CD4 counts or the onset of opportunistic infections like tuberculosis, pneumonia, or certain cancers.

2. Not Everyone with HIV Develops AIDS

A key distinction to remember is that not everyone with HIV will progress to AIDS. Thanks to advancements in medicine, particularly antiretroviral therapy (ART), individuals living with HIV can manage the virus and maintain a healthy immune system for many years, or even decades, without ever developing AIDS. ART works by suppressing the virus to undetectable levels, effectively preventing the damage HIV would otherwise cause to the immune system.

Without treatment, however, HIV progresses through three stages:

- Acute HIV Infection: This stage occurs shortly after transmission and may include symptoms like fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes.

- Chronic HIV Infection: Often asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic, the virus continues to damage the immune system but at a slower rate.

- AIDS: This is the final stage, marked by severe immune damage and the presence of infections that take advantage of the compromised immune defenses.

3. HIV is Transmissible; AIDS is Not

Another key distinction between HIV and AIDS is the way in which they are transmitted. HIV is highly contagious and can be transmitted through the exchange of bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. It is primarily spread through unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles, or from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding.

AIDS, however, is not transmissible. It is not a disease that can be passed from one person to another. Rather, AIDS is the result of untreated, advanced HIV infection and is a direct consequence of the virus’s damage to the immune system.

4. Diagnosis Methods Differ

HIV and AIDS are diagnosed through different methods. HIV is diagnosed through blood tests or oral swabs that detect the presence of the virus or antibodies produced by the immune system in response to the virus. Early detection of HIV is crucial, as it allows for timely intervention and treatment, which can prevent the virus from progressing to AIDS.

AIDS, on the other hand, is diagnosed using more specific criteria. Dr Kulkarni notes that the diagnosis of AIDS is made when the individual’s CD4 cell count falls below 200 cells/mm³, or when opportunistic infections or certain cancers (such as Kaposi's sarcoma or lymphoma) are detected. Diagnosing AIDS involves a more thorough assessment of the individual’s immune function and overall health, as opposed to just the detection of HIV.

5. Treatment Goals Are Different

The treatment goals for HIV and AIDS differ significantly, although both involve antiretroviral therapy (ART). For HIV, the primary treatment goal is to suppress the virus to undetectable levels, thus maintaining a strong immune system and preventing further transmission of the virus. People living with HIV can often live long, healthy lives if they adhere to ART.

For individuals diagnosed with AIDS, the treatment plan becomes more complex. While ART remains an essential part of managing the virus, treatment for AIDS also focuses on addressing the opportunistic infections and secondary health complications associated with severe immune suppression. The goal of treatment for AIDS is not only to manage the HIV virus but also to improve the quality of life and extend survival by treating these secondary health issues.

Role of Community Engagement in Combatting HIV/AIDS

While the medical community has made great strides in managing HIV, the battle to curb its transmission is also a social and cultural issue. Dr Daman Ahuja, a public health expert, highlights that HIV/AIDS awareness and education are vital to reducing transmission rates and supporting those affected by the virus. "Young people, especially, have become key advocates in the fight against HIV/AIDS," says Dr Ahuja. "Research from UNICEF shows that youth-led initiatives can lower HIV transmission rates by as much as 45% in targeted communities."

Additionally, grassroots activism plays a significant role in raising awareness and addressing stigma. As the World Health Organization reports, community-based interventions have been proven to increase HIV testing rates and improve treatment adherence, which are crucial in the fight against the pandemic.

The ultimate goal of organizations like UNAIDS is to eliminate the HIV/AIDS pandemic by 2030. Achieving this requires global collaboration, from medical treatment advancements to public health strategies, education, and advocacy. Dr Kulkarni’s insight underscores the importance of early detection, treatment adherence, and community support in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Dr Gowri Kulkarni is Head of Medical Operations at MediBuddy and Dr Daman Ahuja, a public health expert and has been associated with Red Ribbon Express Project of NACO between 2007-12.

The Indian Meteorological Department has put the coastal states of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha on high alert as Cyclone Arnab is due to make a landfall on Wednesday forenoon.

The department said that a “very severe” cyclonic storm, named Ornab (Arnab), is forming over the Bay of Bengal, nearly 260 km southeast of the port city of Visakhapatnam, the most populous city in Andhra Pradesh.

Nearly 12 million people live on the cyclone’s projected route, which runs inland and north across India, according to Andhra Pradesh’s disaster management authority.

Out of around 400,000, nearly 50,000 people in vulnerable areas have been evacuated to state-run shelters since Monday, according to Reuters. According to The Hindu, around 48,000 people are being mobilised to safer areas in Odisha.

Health Risks After The Storm

Cyclonic storms do not just end when the winds blow away or floodwater recedes. Floodwater may contain human and animal waste, chemicals and decaying organic matter. This could contaminate drinking water.

Contaminated drinking water, damaged sewage systems and stagnant pools can create conditions for waterborne infections and mosquito-borne diseases in the days and weeks that follow.

Exposure may increase the risk of gastrointestinal infections, while contact with contaminated water can also transmit infections like leptospirosis. Additionally, water collected in puddles and blocked drains can turn into breeding sites for mosquitoes.

Dr Divya K S, infectious disease specialist at Apollo Hospitals, Seshadripuram, Bengaluru, told HealthandMe that the health risks that can emerge after Cyclone Arnab, the warning signs to watch for and the precautions people should take.

Risk Of Water-Borne Infections

One of the biggest post cyclone threats is contamination of drinking water sources. Floodwaters can cross into potable water networks and mix with sewage, allowing disease germs to enter water used for drinking, cooking and washing.

Dr Divya warns of the risk posed by acute enteric pathogens, which can cause gastrointestinal illnesses. “Widespread contamination of municipal water and sewage water can cause an increase in pathogens causing gastroenteritis like Cholera, enteric fever etc.,” she says.

She added, “Floodwater is an active biohazard matrix containing human/animal waste, chemicals, and decaying organic matter.”

According to the expert, exposure to these pathogens could lead to different infections: Acute Diarrheal Pathogens: Vibrio cholerae, enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC), Salmonella enterica, Shigella spp., Campylobacter, and enteric viruses (Rotavirus, Norovirus) causing acute watery diarrhea and inflammatory dysentery. Leptospirosis: Leptospira shed in rodent urine can penetrate abrasions or mucous membranes.

Contaminated water and food can transmit infections like cholera, enteric fever and other infections like dysentery. Enteric viruses, including norovirus and rotavirus, can also cause diarrhoea.

Symptoms may include diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and fever. Severe diarrhoea can lead to dehydration, which is particularly dangerous for young children, older adults and people with underlying health conditions.

People should seek medical attention if they develop bloody diarrhoea, vomiting, severe abdominal pain, high fever, confusion, or other signs of severe dehydration.

Also read: Scrub Typhus Claims 15 Lives In Rajasthan: What To Know About Its Symptoms, Transmission, Treatment & Prevention

Risk Of Vector-Borne Infections

As floodwaters recede, water may collect in puddles, blocked drains and other neglected spaces. These sites can cause mosquito breeding, increasing the risk of diseases like dengue, chikungunya and malaria.

Dr Divya says, “Vector populations surge sharply within 1 to 2 weeks post-cyclone. As floodwaters recede, micro-environments like puddles, discarded containers form ideal sites for mosquito breeding.”

After a cyclone, it is therefore important to remove breeding sites by clearing out stagnant water. Residents should empty discard containers that collect water, clear blocked drains, and avoid water accumulation around their homes.

Also read: Climate Change And Gut Health: How Heat, Drought And Unsafe Water Raise Risks, Global Experts Warn

Who Is The Most Vulnerable After A Storm?

Some people face a higher risk of severe complications because of their age, health conditions or difficulty accessing medical care. Dr Divya identifies the following groups as particularly vulnerable:

• Immunocompromised people: Those with advanced HIV, cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, transplant recipients and people taking immunosuppressive medicines.
• Children and older adults: Both groups may be more vulnerable to dehydration and severe illness.
• Pregnant women: Infections and disruptions in maternity care can pose additional risks.
• People with chronic conditions: Those with diabetes, chronic kidney disease or cardiovascular disease may need uninterrupted access to treatment.

During evacuation, people must carry emergency medicines. Insulin and other temperature-controlled medicines need appropriate storage, while people receiving dialysis, chemotherapy or care related to transplant may need urgent arrangements if services are disrupted.

Pregnant women should continue to access antenatal care and seek urgent help for warning signs like bleeding, severe abdominal pain or reduced fetal movement later in pregnancy.

How To Protect Yourself After The Storm?

Safe drinking water, hand hygiene and food safety are essential after a cyclone, especially when sanitation infrastructure has been damaged.

Dr Divya recommends boiling water to make it safer to drink. “Boiling water can ensure disinfection of the water borne infections,” she says.

The doctor also emphasises hand hygiene and safe food practices. “Rigorous hand hygiene using soap and water prior to food consumption and post-defecation,” she recommends.

Food should be thoroughly cooked and served hot. Avoid raw produce that cannot be washed, food exposed to flies and meals whose handling or storage conditions are unsafe.

British pop star Jessie J has shared an update on her recovery after undergoing a second breast reconstruction surgery.

The 38-year-old singer-songwriter took to Instagram to share a series of photos, including one taken after her latest surgery. In the picture, she is seen wearing a hospital gown and giving a thumbs-up, with the caption, “to healing.”

The post marks Jessie’s first update since September, when she announced she would be taking a break from social media ahead of her surgery.

Jessie was diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer in 2025 and underwent a mastectomy. She announced in May 2026 that she was cancer-free.

Sharing the emotional news on Instagram, she admitted she "sobbed for hours and then exhaled for the first time in a year."

Jessie J’s Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Also read: World Breast Cancer Day 2026: Life After Breast Cancer, The Fear No One Sees

Jessie announced her diagnosis in June 2025, shortly after performing at Capital’s Summertime Ball at London’s Wembley Stadium. She spoke candidly about her diagnosis and the surgery she would undergo.

In a video message, she shared that she had been “in and out of tests” before receiving a diagnosis of early breast cancer.

“Cancer sucks in any form,” she said, adding that she was holding on to the word “early.”

Using her characteristic dark humor, she described the surgery as “a very dramatic way to get a boob job” and told her followers, “I will come back with massive boobs and more music.”

However, she also spoke openly about the emotional toll of the diagnosis, saying, “I need to process it and talk about it” and “I need a hug.”

What Is Breast Reconstruction Surgery?

Breast reconstruction surgery aims to restore the shape and contour of the breast after a mastectomy, which involves removing the entire breast. Depending on the cancer and the treatment plan, nearby skin and lymph nodes may also be removed.

Following a mastectomy, patients may choose breast reconstruction to restore breast shape and symmetry. The procedure can be performed at the same time as the mastectomy or at a later date, depending on the patient's circumstances and treatment plan.

Read More: Experts Explain Most Overlooked Breast Changes That Can Delay Diagnosis In Men

Why Do Some Patients Need Multiple Breast Reconstruction Surgeries?

According to the American Cancer Society, breast reconstruction often involves more than one operation. The number and type of procedures depend on the reconstruction method, the patient's needs and the desired outcome.

There are two main types of breast reconstruction:

• Implant reconstruction: A saline or silicone implant is used to rebuild the breast.
• Tissue flap reconstruction: Tissue taken from another part of the body is used to reconstruct the breast.

In some cases, surgeons combine the two approaches.

Reconstruction may be immediate, taking place during breast cancer surgery, or delayed until a later date. Both implant-based and tissue flap reconstruction can be performed using either approach.

After the initial reconstruction, some patients may undergo additional procedures to refine the breast's appearance or feel. These may include fat grafting, scar revision or procedures to recreate the nipple and areola, sometimes using medical tattooing.

Benefits And Risks Of Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction can help restore breast shape and symmetry after a mastectomy. For some patients, it may also improve body image, confidence and emotional well-being. However, the benefits vary from person to person.

As with other surgical procedures, breast reconstruction carries potential risks and complications, including:

• Infection
• Fluid or blood accumulation
• Delayed wound healing
• Changes in sensation
• Implant-related complications
• Capsular contracture
• Blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism
• Psychological effects.

Low-dose naltrexone has received plenty of attention as a strong candidate for treating people with chronic fatigue after COVID-19. But a new randomised clinical trial has found no significant improvement in fatigue, pain or any other symptoms when compared to a placebo.

The study, posted on medRxiv, examined low-dose naltrexone (LDN) in adults with post-COVID fatigue syndrome. The findings challenge hopes that an existing repurposed drug could provide relief for people whose symptoms have not subsided months after infection.

The paper has not yet undergone peer review, which means its findings have not been independently evaluated in a formal manner.

Study Based On 160 Adults With Long COVID

Also read: 'It’s The Best-Studied Vaccine In Human History': Former CDC Adviser Busts Common Myths About COVID Vaccines

160 adults aged 19 to 69 from British Columbia and Ontario, Canada participated in the trial. Participants had developed symptoms that resembled myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) after a SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Researchers randomly assigned participants either low-dose naltrexone or a placebo for 16 weeks. The naltrexone dose began at 1 milligram daily and increased to a maximum of 4.5 milligrams, depending on how participants tolerated the treatment.

The main outcome was fatigue severity, which was measured using the Fatigue Severity Scale. At the end of the study, the average fatigue score was 4.2 in the LDN group and 4.4 in the placebo group.

The difference between the groups was not statistically significant, meaning the trial proved that the drug did not improve fatigue.

Researchers also found no significant differences between the groups in pain, overall ME/CFS symptoms, daily step counts or any other health aspects related to quality of life.

These results suggest that LDN did not provide any measurable benefit for the participants. The study also found that LDN was generally well tolerated over the 16-week period.

However, adverse events classified as grade 3 or higher were reported in five participants in the LDN group, or 6.2%, compared with three participants in the placebo group or 3.8%.

Why Has Low-Dose Naltrexone Attracted Interest?

Also read: 'I Never Recovered From That Crash': US Physicist Recalls Her Years-Long Battle With Long COVID

Naltrexone is an established medicine used at standard doses to treat alcohol use disorder and opioid use disorder. At much lower doses, it has been tested for conditions involving chronic pain, inflammation and fatigue.

LDN’s effects on immune signalling and inflammatory conditions have sparked interest in its potential use for long COVID, a condition that can involve fatigue, cognitive difficulties, pain, breathlessness and symptoms affecting several biological functions.

Researchers Caution

The findings apply specifically to adults with post-COVID fatigue syndrome who met the study’s criteria for ME/CFS-like symptoms.

Long COVID refers to symptoms that occur after a SARS-CoV-2 infection and cannot be explained by another diagnosis. Symptoms vary widely and may include fatigue, cognitive difficulties, breathlessness, sleep disturbances and problems with everyday activities.

Some people improve over time, while others experience prolonged illness that affects their ability to lead routine lives.

The results do not mean that long COVID symptoms are untreatable. Instead, they highlight how difficult it can be to identify effective treatments for a condition with varied symptoms.

There are currently no FDA-approved medicines specifically for long COVID, and care often focuses on managing individual symptoms.

People taking or considering naltrexone should discuss its benefits and risks with a healthcare professional rather than starting or changing treatment on their own.