Understanding viral load is crucial for several reasons:
Transmission Risk: Higher viral loads increase the likelihood of transmitting the virus to sexual partners or during childbirth. Treatment Efficacy: Monitoring viral load helps assess how well a patient is responding to antiviral therapies. Disease Progression: A high viral load can indicate more severe disease and a higher risk of complications. Preventive Measures: Knowing viral load helps in making informed decisions about preventive strategies, such as condom use or antiretroviral prophylaxis.