What are opportunistic infections?

What are opportunistic infections?
Opportunistic infections are those kinds of infections that your body would normally be able to combat should you have a strong immune system. With a depleted immune system, the body is susceptible to infections such as tuberculosis, certain kinds of pneumonia and skin infections.

Keep yourself healthier for as long as possible, by doing the following:

• Get treatment for infections as soon as possible as this helps to maintain the strength of your immune system;
• Practice protected sex to avoid infecting yourself or others with HIV or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs);
• Eat a well-balanced diet, as well as lots of fresh fruit and vegetables;
• Avoid consuming alcohol and smoking and if you do, try to stop as soon as possible;
• Take the multivitamin supplements provided by your doctor or the clinic;
• Exercise for at least 20 minutes, three times a week; and
• Visit an HIV clinic regularly so that your health can be monitored and doctors can supply you with anti-retroviral treatment should it be necessary.

You can also help in the fight against HIV and Aids by informing your family, friends and neighbours about HIV and Aids, how they can prevent infections, or how they can continue to live positively if they are infected with HIV.