Question
Am I at risk of getting ill?
22 February 2023. Related: All topics, CD4 and viral load, Newly diagnosed.
I tested HIV positive a week ago, I started my ART 5 days ago. I got my blood test results back today and my viral load is 13000 and CD4 is 234. Am I at risk of getting critical ill? Please assist I am worried.
Answer
Hi, how are you doing?
It is great that you have started treatment so quickly. This will allow for your viral load to be suppressed and help your CD4 count recover.
Where are you based? Some countries recommend being on an antibiotic when your CD4 count is below 250. This is used to prevent other infections and keep you healthy as your immune system recovers.
As you are on treatment, you have reduced your risk of being critically ill. Over time your CD4 count will be able to recover and you will have a healthy immune system.
Josh.
Hi Zee, in SA it would be recommended to be on co-trimoxazole until you have a CD4 count greater than 350. This antibiotic would help protect you from other infections while your immune system recovers.
Hi
Thank you, I’m in South Africa