Introduction

Any diagnosis can be difficult and having two infections can be more stressful. We hope that the information here helps you feel more in control of some of the treatment related choices so that you can focus on other things you want to do in life.

Because some of the ways that you can catch both HIV and hepatitis viruses are similar, coinfection is not unusual. In some countries, coinfection with HIV and hepatitis C is more common than just having HIV alone.

People living with HIV, hepatitis C or coinfection, have written much of this guide. It is written with a positive outlook for management and treatment.

Some people have been living with HCV for over 20 years and have not chosen HCV treatment. Others were infected recently. Some of them have been HIVpositive for many years, and have chosen very early HCV treatment. This emphasises that an individual approach to your own healthcare is essential

The www logo in the text indicates additional infomation online that is not in the print version.

We’ve also included references and referrals to other sources of information and support organisations.

A glossary is included throughout the guide to help with medical terms that may be new.

Finally, there is a short section on controversial aspects of care. Our understanding of these issues is likely to change as new research becomes available.

As with all treatment information, please check for up-dates to this edition, especially if reading this after March 2010.

This guide is also available in Italian, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish (PDF only).