Disclosure: Who needs to know about HIV in the family?

Disclosure: Who needs to know about HIV in the family?
Most people are very concerned about whom they should tell or not tell about HIV in the family. It is your right to decide this for yourself. The only people who need to know are the health care staff who work with you and your child, which may include nurses, physicians, and social workers, your family doctor and dentist.

Your family doctor and HIV specialist should consult with each other to decide the best treatment for your child. Because infections can start in the mouth, it is also particularly important that all children see a dentist regularly.

Immunizations

There are a few immunization recommendations regarding HIV-infected children that differ from those for HIV-negative children. Encapsulated bacteria cause considerable illness for HIV-infected children, so Haemophilus influenzae (flu) and pneumococcal conjugate vaccines are important. Varicella vaccine is a live virus vaccine but it can be considered safe for HIV-infected children without immuno-suppression. Measles, mumps and rubella vaccine can be safely given to HIV-infected children who do not have severe immunosuppression. Always consult with your pediatrician regarding vaccine administration.