H1N1 Flu, And HIV....What You Need To Know

I recently attended a webinar with officials from the CDC, National Institute of Health, and the Department of Health And Human Sevices that discussed H1N1 and HIV. I will outline the basics things you need to know about the H1N1 flu virus, if you have HIV. You can download the full audio recording of the webinar in mp3 format HERE. This full audio version has information for health care providers as well. I will just be making this post for patients though.

Research has shown that people living with HIV are not at a greater risk to contract influenza than adults without HIV. But, people with HIV can experience more severe complications of the flu if they do get the virus. Here are some ways to reduce the risks of contracting the H1N1 flu virus. Make sure you wash your hands often. Adoid close contact with anyone who is sick. Close contact would be 6 feet or closer to anyone who is sick. Advoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, and advoid stress. Do not miss any medications prescribed to you by your doctor. This would be your antiretrovirals, and any antibiotics that you may be taking. All these actions can help you advoid getting the H1N1 flu virus, and the regular flu.

There is treatment available for people who may have contracted the influenza virus. These treatments are to take antivirals. This is different then your antiretrovirals you may take. The CDC recommends treatment using either oseltamivir or zanamivir. A health care professional will determine the best treatment for you.

Symptoms of the flu can be but not limited to, cough, fever, running nose, aches, pains, nausea, and vomiting. If you are diagnosed with H1N1 you should stay home 24 hours after your fever has broken. Also if you have family, let them know you have the flu, so they can help you with maybe getting out and getting food for you, making sure your bills get paid, while you stay home and recover. Also make sure you have a 2week supply of any medications you maybe taking. Also being stocked up with chicken noodle soup and other comforting items is recommended.

For more information please visit:
http://www.flu.gov/
http://www.cdc.gov/flu
http://www.AIDS.gov/