HIV/AIDS, colds and flu

If your immune system is weakened by HIV/AIDS, it may be very difficult for you to fight off colds, flu or other viral infections. That's why it's important you understand fully how to stay well and avoid colds and flu. Here's what you need to know about HIV/AIDS and colds in order to stay well.

Why are colds such a serious problem for people with HIV/AIDS?

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) kills or damages cells in the body's immune system, making it more difficult to fight infections like the cold virus. If you have HIV/AIDS, you're also more likely to develop complications following a cold, such as pneumonia.

Which cold treatment should I use for a cold with HIV/AIDS?

When you first get cold symptoms, contact your doctor if HIV/AIDS has weakened your immune system. While there are no antiviral medicines for cold viruses, your doctor can recommend simple remedies to ease your cold symptoms. A cold normally lasts about a week and goes away on its own, even in people with HIV. However, when your immune system is weakened, you are more likely to get complications from the cold, such as pneumonia. If your symptoms don't improve or if you develop shortness of breath or a high fever, let your doctor know in case you need more aggressive treatment.

When you have a cold, make sure you drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, especially if you have a fever. High fever-above 39 degrees C (102 degrees F)-is a sign that you may have flu. If you have flu symptoms, let your doctor know. Flu medicines, including specific antiviral agents such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu), may help to shorten the duration of flu symptoms.

And even if you have no appetite, try to eat something anyway. Smaller meals may help until you get your appetite back. Make sure you rest frequently and get plenty of sleep, so your body has a chance to recover.

Can I prevent colds if I have HIV/AIDS?

Because people with HIV/AIDS are more susceptible to viral and bacterial infections, it's important always to use good hygiene to reduce the chances of getting sick. Talk to your family members and friends about preventing the spread of cold viruses by covering their mouths when they cough or sneeze, washing their hands frequently, and avoiding rubbing their eyes after touching surfaces.

Also, use an antibacterial cleaner or a mild bleach solution regularly to kill germs on common household hotspots such as the computer mouse and keyboard, telephone receivers, doorknobs, kitchen and bathroom counter tops and sinks, and the refrigerator handle.

Ask your doctor about getting both a pneumonia vaccination and a flu jab for yourself, as well as a flu jab for all your family members to avoid them spreading illnesses amongst each other.

The flu season can begin as early as October and last until as late as May. October or November is the best time to get vaccinated, but you can still have a vaccination in December or later. The flu jab takes effect about ten days to two weeks after your vaccination. You may only need the pneumonia vaccination once.