covid 19
How are hiv drugs involved?
Some HIV medicines are currently being evaluated to treat COVID-19. However, until more is known about the effects of these medicines on COVID-19, people living with HIV should not switch their HIV medicine to prevent or treat COVID-19
Risk
Currently there is no evidence to suggest there is an increased risk of COVID-19 infection and increased severity of illness for people living with HIV*
The risk for people living with HIV getting very sick is greatest in:
• People not on HIV treatment (antiretroviral therapy)
• People with a low CD4 cell count
People living with HIV have higher rates of some underlying health conditions. These conditions, as well as older age, may increase their risk for more severe illness if people living with HIV get COVID-19, especially those with advanced HIV.
Staying healthy
Make sure you have at least a 30-day supply of your HIV medicine and any other medications or supplies you need for managing HIV Know how to access treatment and other support within your community. This could include antiretroviral therapy, tuberculosis medication (if you are on tuberculosis treatment) and any other medication for other illnesses
that you have.
Make sure you have essential means to prevent HIV infection, such as: sterile needles and syringes and/ or opioid substitution therapy, condoms, and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) if necessary. Adequate supplies of other medications, such as contraception and gender-a rming hormone therapy, should also be obtained.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating right, getting at least eight hours of sleep a night, reducing stress, and washing your hands often.