When HIV infects people, it does not immediately induce AIDS and kill its host. When people die from HIV infections, it is usually because
A) the virus induces a coma and then eventually stops the heart muscle.
B) they have too many T cells, and this overwhelms their immune systems.
C) they have too many HIV particles in their lymph system, which causes it to shut down.
D) the virus starts destroying cells as it divides and causes massive internal hemorrhaging that leads to shock and eventually death.
E) they have too few T cells and become susceptible to secondary infections and cancers.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

HIV attacks and destroys CD4+ T cells, a type of white blood cell that is a critical part of the immune system. As the number of CD4+ T cells declines, the immune system becomes weaker and less able to fight off infections and cancers. People with HIV eventually become vulnerable to infections and cancers that their bodies would normally be able to fight off, and it is often these secondary infections or cancers that ultimately cause death. This is why HIV is considered a chronic, progressive illness that can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome).

When HIV Infects People, It Does Not Immediately Induce AIDS