Average CD4 count increases on ART

The higher your CD4 count when you start ART, the more likely that it will reach – or stay above – 500.

But even starting with very low CD4 counts, getting above 350 or even 200 will still reduce the chance of most HIV complications.

This graph shows average levels of CD4 increases. Some people respond faster or slower than average.

Nearly everyone starting above 350 will get above 500. Staying above 500 means you might never have an HIV-related illness.

Last updated: 1 June 2022.