Final answer:
Alexa may be in the clinical latency stage of HIV infection and not show any symptoms, so testing for HIV is critical. If she is infected, treatments are available, and it is not certain that she will develop AIDS within a year without medication.
Step-by-step explanation:
If Alexa had a single sexual encounter with Jake who has now tested positive for HIV, several outcomes are possible for Alexa after such a period. Let's consider the options given in the question:
A. She may be in the clinical latency stage of HIV infection but have no symptoms. During this period, HIV can become dormant and the patient may not experience any symptoms. If a patient is not on antiretroviral therapy, this stage can last a decade or longer.
B. Unlikely she has HIV if no symptoms have developed by now is not necessarily true. HIV can remain asymptomatic for long periods, and only testing can confirm whether Alexa is infected or not.
C. Little she can do now to protect her health is incorrect. Even if she tests positive for HIV, there are treatments that can manage the virus effectively and maintain health.
D. Certain to develop full-blown AIDS within the year if she does not begin medication is a misconception. The progression of HIV to AIDS varies between individuals and is not inevitable within a specific timeframe without medication.
It is essential for Alexa to get tested for HIV promptly. If she tests positive, medical treatment options are available to manage the virus and maintain a healthy life.