CDC Issues Recommendations For HIV Infected Individuals About H1N1 Swine Flu
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has published a document of recommendations for HIV infected individuals about the H1N1 (swine) flu. Currently, the CDC does not have any information about the risk of H1N1 flu in individuals with HIV/AIDS.
However, HIV/AIDS infected individuals may experience more severe side effects and complications with H1N1 flu, as evidenced by severe side effects to previous seasonal influenzas. HIV infected individuals are more vulnerable to flu side effects because of the low number of CD4 cells or healthy white blood cells that can fight off infection.
Common signs and symptoms of H1N1 infection are similar to the ones associated with seasonal influenza. Some of the signs are fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, body aches (such in muscles and joints), chills, fatigue, diarrhea, and vomiting.
It is recommended that any HIV infected individual who thinks they may have H1N1 flu or other seasonal flu should visit a health professional for an evaluation and possible treatment. Treatment for H1N1 includes two antiviral drugs called Relenza (zanamivir) and Tamiflu (oseltamivir). Treatment is most effective if started within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms.
Currently, there is no vaccine for the H1N1 flu. The vaccine for the seasonal flu does not work against H1N1 flu. If a vaccine is developed, the CDC recommends that HIV infected individuals should receive it. HIV infected individuals who are in close contact or proximity of H1N1 infected individuals should receive antiviral chemoprophylaxis, or antiviral prevention medication.
The CDC recommends the following precautions for HIV infected individuals to protect themselves from H1N1:
- Wash hands often, using soap or water or a hand sanitizer.
- Try to avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with your hands because germs can be spread that way.
- Avoid close contact with other sick or infected individuals.
- Be sure to look at the CDC recommendations for facemask and respirator use.
HIV infected individuals should try to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating proper meals, getting enough sleep, and reducing stress. Additionally, it is important to stay informed and consult a physician to check that all vaccinations are up to date.
Currently, the CDC is working with nationwide health departments to understand the H1N1 flu virus and to determine effects it may have on HIV infected individuals.
For more information, please see the CDC publication and the CDC H1N1 Flu Web site.
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- The H1N1 Swine Flu And HIV/AIDS: A Comprehensive Review
- New Clinical Trials Will Test H1N1 Vaccine In HIV-Positive Children And Pregnant Women
- HIV-Infected Adults Sought For Swine Flu Vaccine Trial
- Study Evaluates Antiviral Activity Of New Integrase Inhibitor In Healthy And HIV-Infected Individuals
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