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Deadly infection from wild animals: How did humans come into close contact with SIV from orangutans?
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a frightening virus that causes millions of infections and deaths around the world. Research suggests that the origins of the virus can be traced to non-human primates, particularly orangutans and apes in Africa. Research on SIV (Simian Immunodeficiency Virus) reveals the origins of HIV and how humans come into indirect contact with these viruses.
The spread of HIV is closely related to urbanization and cultural changes in Africa. With the increase in human activities, the virus has also found a way to enter human society.
The relationship between SIV and HIV
The origins of different types of HIV, including HIV-1 and HIV-2, are closely related to SIV in wild animals. HIV-1 mostly developed from the SIV virus in orangutans, especially those from Congo and Cameroon. HIV-2 mainly originates from chimpanzees in West Africa. These subtle viral differences allow researchers to trace the origins and evolutionary history of the virus.
The process of cross-species infection
According to the "Hunter Theory," cross-transmission of HIV may occur when hunters handle infected animal meat. These hunters were injured during handling or hunting and came into contact with the animal's blood, which infected them with SIV. As agriculture gradually came into conflict with traditional hunting, some areas of Africa began to rely on non-domesticated animals as their main food source.
Research shows that in some areas that challenge the survival of wild animals, close contact with wild animals increases the risk of human infection with SIV.
Initial transmission of HIV-1
Many scientists believe that the initial cross-species spread of HIV-1 occurred in the Congo region in the early 20th century. By genetically sequencing blood samples in test tubes, scientists were able to deduce how the virus was evolving at that time and how this was related to local urbanization.
The impact of social changes
With the advent of the colonial era, the urbanization process in Central Africa has changed the original social structure and interpersonal relationships. This change not only affected human sexuality but also led to frequent contact between prostitutes and migrant labor in cities. This social unrest also creates a favorable environment for the spread of HIV.
Many studies have pointed out that large-scale population mobility and urbanization have accelerated the spread of HIV, allowing the virus to enter the population faster.
Injection and virus transmission
Unsafe injection practices are believed to be one of the major factors in the rapid spread of HIV in the early 20th century. Extensive vaccinations and the use of non-sterile syringes have led to the spread of SIV from one infected person to another.
Unsolved mysteries
Although existing research explains the origin of the HIV virus, many unanswered questions remain. For example, why do only a few HIV variants spread rapidly among the population? These questions have been perplexing the scientific community and have prompted many scholars to explore further.
Virus transmission between wild animals and humans is a complex and interesting topic. It is not only about biology, but also involves interactions in social, cultural and historical fields. In future research, we may be able to understand more deeply the subtle relationship between these pathogens and humans, and further think about: How can we reduce the risk of cross-species transmission of such viruses and ensure human health and safety?
