At which stage of HIV infection does one usually show symptoms of AIDS?

Correct answer: C. When HIV damages a large number of helper T-lymphocytes

  • A. Within 15 days of sexual contact with an infected person
  • B. When the infected retrovirus enters host cells
  • C. When HIV damages a large number of helper T-lymphocytes
  • D. When the viral DNA is produced by reverse transcriptase

Explanation

AIDS is a condition that arises when the immune system is severely compromised due to a significant reduction in CD4 cells, which are targeted by the HIV virus. HIV initially infects the host by entering cells and using its reverse transcriptase to integrate its genetic material into the host's DNA. Over time, as the number of helper T-lymphocytes (CD4 cells) is depleted, the immune system weakens, leading to the symptoms associated with AIDS. This progressive damage does not occur immediately after infection or at the initial entry of the virus into cells, but rather after a significant loss of CD4 cells.

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