SayPro HIV and opportunistic infections

When someone living with HIV has a weakened immune system (shown by a low CD4 count), they are at risk of ‘opportunistic infections’ which is when infections take the opportunity of the immune system being weak.

Common opportunistic infections associated with HIV include:

• cryptococcal meningitis
• toxoplasmosis
• PCP (a type of pneumonia)
• oesophageal candidiasis
• certain cancers, including Kaposi’s sarcoma.

There are medicines available for people living with HIV who have a low CD4 count to prevent these types of infections. However, being on effective antiretroviral treatment is the most effective way to avoid these opportunistic infections.

If you’re feeling unsure about anything or would like to find out more about HIV and other conditions, then to talk to your healthcare professional who can guide you to further information sources and help you make sense of it all.