How Novel Corona Virus affects HIV patients, this all depends on many factors. Since HIV affects immune system, so HIV patients are more vulnerable to any infection. The most important factor is to be on regular stable therapy to maintain undetectable viral load and CD4 count as higher than possible. Ideally viral load has to be undetectable and CD4 counts should be over 500. Underlying principle is lower the CD4 counts higher will be the danger of catching CORONA infection. However, nobody can quantify the danger as it depends on various other factors.
All HIV patients need to remember that their regular therapy is their biggest guard for them and they can never afford to lower it down for any reason. So take medicines exactly as prescribed and maintain adequate stocks of your HIV medicines. We had worked very hard for our patients during this tough time and helped them in getting their regular supply of medicines.
An HIV-infected person needs to be more careful about social distancing and personal hygiene. Regarding mask I will recommend them to use N95 mask. Avoid going out for any non-essential work. To maintain a strong immune system, follow a regular daily schedule like get up on time, exercise and work outs regularly, take good diet with fruits and vegetables. Do meditation to calm your mind as it will immensely strengthen your immune system.
Your treating doctor should be available for consulting on the phone or for any emergency if need arises.
There is a lot of talk about prophylaxis with hydroxychloroquine, and there are many recommendations about it. I recommend discussing this option with your treating doctor.
We all are waiting for effective therapy to come out for Novel corona virus and we will have it soon. The best will be to have a vaccine and let us see when it will be available.
I want to announce since there are many other patients, not under our regular care and want to consult a doctor and unable to do it because of this pandemic and lock down so they can also get in touch with me on my mobile number and I will be glad to provide tele consulting to them.
They can get in touch on my mobile number: 9897265635.
Stay safe.
Your HIV Dost
Dr Alok
