Question
Can I have AIDS with an undetectable viral load?
26 January 2023. Related: All topics, CD4 and viral load, Newly diagnosed.
Hello, about a year and a half ago I was diagnosed as HIV-positive and receiving treatment. My viral load has been undetectable for a year since I have been taking the medication every day.
My question : can I have AIDS with undetectable viral load?
Answer
Hi, how are you doing?
It is great that you have an undetectable viral load. Do you know your CD4 count?
As you have an undetectable viral load, HIV is no longer destroying your immune cells and will allow your CD4 count to recover. As your CD4 count recovers it means you will have a stronger immune system and you are not at risk of AIDS.
AIDS also means that an AIDS defining illness needs to occur. An undetectable viral load makes this very unlikely and if you have a good CD4 count, this would be near impossible.
Josh.
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