Question

Identify the type of infection HIV is and what it infects. HIV is a BLANK infection. HIV infects BLANK cells.

a) Bacterial, Red blood cells
b) Viral, T lymphocytes
c) Fungal, White blood cells
d) Protozoal, Nerve cells

Answer 1

HIV is a viral infection that primarily targets T lymphocytes or helper T cells (CD4+ T cells) in the immune system, leading to a weakened defense against diseases.

Step-by-step explanation:

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a viral infection. HIV targets certain cells within the immune system, specifically T lymphocytes, also known as helper T cells (CD4+ T cells). These cells are crucial to the immune response, as they help coordinate the activity of other immune cells. By infecting and destroying these cells, HIV weakens the immune system, leading to a decreased ability to fight off other infections and diseases. Over time, if left untreated, the depletion of CD4+ T cells can progress to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), where the body is much more vulnerable to opportunistic infections.

The correct answer to the student's question is: HIV is a viral infection. HIV infects T lymphocytes (specifically CD4+ T cells).