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Once inside the human body, the HIV virus enters macrophages, a type of immune cell. Within the macrophages, the viral RNA genome is replicated to form viral DNA with the assistance of an enzyme called reverse transcriptase. This viral DNA is then integrated into the DNA of the host cell, directing the infected cell to produce virus particles. The infected macrophages continue to produce the virus, acting as HIV factories. Simultaneously, the HIV virus also enters helper T-lymphocytes (TH cells) and replicates within them, producing new viruses. These progeny viruses are released into the bloodstream and target other helper T-lymphocytes, leading to a progressive decrease in their numbers. As the number of helper T-lymphocytes decreases, the infected person experiences various symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, and weight loss. Due to the decrease in helper T-lymphocytes, the person's immune system becomes severely weakened, making them susceptible to infections that could typically be overcome, including those caused by bacteria, such as Mycobacterium, viruses, fungi, and parasites like Toxoplasma. The patient becomes immunodeficient, unable to effectively protect themselves against these infections. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is a widely used diagnostic test for AIDS, allowing for the detection of HIV infection. While antiretroviral drugs can partially prolong the life of AIDS patients, they cannot prevent death, which is inevitable without a cure for the disease. Prevention is crucial in combating AIDS since there is currently no cure. HIV infection primarily spreads through conscious behavioral patterns, unlike infections like pneumonia or typhoid that may occur inadvertently. Steps such as ensuring blood safety in blood banks, using disposable needles and syringes, promoting condom distribution, controlling drug abuse, advocating safe sex, and regular HIV check-ups in susceptible populations are taken to prevent the spread of HIV infection. It is essential not to hide HIV infection or AIDS as doing so may lead to further transmission. HIV/AIDS-infected individuals deserve help and sympathy from society instead of being stigmatized. Recognizing HIV/AIDS as a collective problem and taking collaborative actions between society and the medical fraternity are crucial in preventing the widespread dissemination of the disease. It requires a joint effort to tackle this malady and prevent its spread.

Which type of immune cell does HIV initially enter in the human body?

Macrophages

The correct answer is Option (3)- Macrophages
After getting into the body of the person, the virus enters into macrophages where RNA genome of the virus replicates to form viral DNA with the help of the enzyme reverse transcriptase.
HIV initially enters macrophages, a type of immune cell, in the human body. These cells act as the first sites of infection, where the virus begins to replicate. Although HIV also infects helper T-lymphocytes (T-helper cells) later in the infection process, macrophages are one of the initial targets.