AIDS claims seven lives in Mainpuri; 63 found infected

Mainpuri, Sep 17 (UNI) Seven people have died due to Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) while 63 have been infected in this district of Uttar Pradesh.

Superintendent of District Hospital Dr R K Gupta today said the number of AIDS patients has increased in the last couple of years.

In 2001, there was only one AIDS patient in the district but the number has now increased to 63.

Sources said AIDS is a collection of symtoms and infections in humans resulting from specific damage to the immune system caused by the human immuno deficiency virus (HIV). The late stage of the condition leaves individuals prone to opportunistic infections and tumours.

Although treatments for AIDS and HIV exist to slow the virus's progression, there is no known cure. According to the World Health Organisation estimates, AIDS has killed more than 25 million people all over the world since it was first recognised on June 2, 1981.

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