Question

Is my partner still at risk after 18 months on ART?

27 April 2025. Related: Adherence, All topics, CD4 and viral load, HIV transmission.

Hi I started art with a cd4 below 200 and I probably had a high viral load so on 12 months of ART.

My nurse told me that my results were looking good and I’m now in 20 months of art am I still a risk to my partner?

Answer

Answer: Simon Collins

Hi there

Thanks – great you are doing so well on ART.

Also that you know that your meds protect your partner too.

Please ask your nurse for your actual results. This is because you need to know whether or not you are undetectable or not for your own care.

If for any reason you are not undetectable – or less than 200 – then please email me again and we can talk about options.

Even with a high viral load, most people become undetectable within about 6 months but sometimes this might take a little longer. You have definitely been taking ART for long enough, but knowing the number will show how well it is still working.

Most people also like to know how there CD4 count is doing.

Knowing your CD4 and viral load results are important.