As time passes, the number of HIV copies keeps increasing, while the number of helper T cells keeps decreasing. The graph in Figure below shows how the number of T cells typically declines over a period of many years following the initial HIV infection. As the number of T cells decreases, so does the ability of the immune system to defend the body. As a result, an HIV-infected person develops frequent infections. Medicines can slow down the virus but not get rid of it, so there is no cure at present for HIV infections or AIDS. There also is no vaccine to immunize people against HIV infection, but scientists are working to develop one.
Jason and Elton have both been diagnosed with HIV. Jason was initially diagnosed 5 years ago. Elton was initially diagnosed 15 years ago. Both Jason and Elton recently had routine doctor appointments and had blood work done to assess the progression of the disease.
Who will have fewer copies of HIV in their blood, Jason or Elton?