4.9: HIV and COVID-19

COVID-19 is an illness caused by a new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). The main symptoms are fever, cough and breathing difficulties. A small proportion of people develop severe pneumonia and require intensive care. People living with HIV appear to have a slightly increased risk of dying from COVID-19.¹ People living with HIV who have underlying health conditions such as obesity, poorly controlled diabetes and high blood pressure appear to be at higher risk.¹ In general, the most important risk factors for death from COVID-19 are older age, an organ transplant and a recent diagnosis of blood cancer.¹ People with CD4 cell counts below 50 or an opportunistic illness in the last six months may choose to take extra precautions to protect themselves from infection.¹ Overall, data suggest that people living with HIV who are on effective HIV treatment have the same risk for COVID-19 as people who do not have HIV.² People living with HIV may choose to get vaccinated if they have not had a severe or immediate allergic reaction to any of the vaccine ingredients.²  People with weakened immune systems should also be aware of the potential for reduced immune response to the vaccine and consult their medical team.² As a result it is recommended that even when vaccinated, people living with HIV should continue to take every day preventative actions to protect themselves from COVID-19.²