Influenza and HIV

Influenza and HIV

Pandemic influenza: implications for programs controlling for HIV infection, tuberculosis, and chronic viral hepatitis.

Among vulnerable populations during an influenza pandemic are persons with or at risk for HIV infection, tuberculosis, or chronic viral hepatitis. HIV-infected persons have higher rates of hospitalization, prolonged illness, and increased mortality from influenza compared with the general population. Persons with tuberculosis and chronic viral hepatitis may also be at increased risk of morbidity and mortality from influenza because of altered immunity and chronic illness. These populations also face social and structural barriers that will be exacerbated by a pandemic. Existing infrastructure should be expanded and pandemic planning should include preparations to reduce the risks for these populations.

This article highlights the importance of pandemic influenza plans that include specific actions to reduce the risk of influenza among people living with HIV, tuberculosis or viral hepatitis and maintain continuity of care and prevention services. In the case of HIV, it is critical to prevent disruptions in the supply of antiretroviral drugs and to anticipate and mitigate personnel shortages to avoid the erratic dosing and sub therapeutic drug levels that can lead to disease progression and viral resistance. Improving rates of annual vaccination against seasonal influenza among people living with HIV, their caretakers, and health care providers is an obvious step. The higher risk of complications among young people with chronic medical conditions, in the case of the H1N1 influenza, underscores the importance of receiving the H1N1 vaccine if this description fits you.