human immunodeficiency virus

(virology) The retrovirus that causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome. Abbreviated HIV.

A type of retrovirus that causes AIDS. Retroviruses produce the enzyme reverse transcriptase, which allows transcription of the viral genome onto the DNA of the H host cell. It is transmitted through contact with an infected individual’s blood, semen, cervical secretions, cerebrospinal fluid, or synovial fluid. HIV infects T-helper cells of the immune system and results in infection with a long incubation period, averaging 10 years.

A virus transmitted sexually, and by contact with infected blood or blood products. It is the virus responsible for AIDS, but many people carry the virus without developing AIDS. There is much concern about the risk of acquiring the virus in a sporting context. The risk is probably exceedingly small (much less than the risk of contracting hepatitis B), but several reports suggest that the virus might have been transmitted to athletes from contact with blood from opponents. It is important to maintain strict standards of hygiene on the sports field and to give extra care when dealing with bleeding from wounds. It is unacceptable, for example, in football to use a communal bucket and sponge when treating an injured player. See also acquired immune deficiency syndrome.