SWINE FLU A/H1N1: MORE SEVERE COMPLICATIONS FOR HIV PATIENTS

Experience so far with how the 2009 H1N1 influenza affects teens and adults with HIV does not indicate that these people are at particularly higher risk of getting the H1N1 flu. But if they do get it, experts think they might have more severe complications, just as they do with seasonal flu.

At the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, John Brooks says anti-flu drugs could help if they get the flu:

"The H1N1 virus is sensitive to two antiviral drugs: zanamivir and oseltamivir. HIV-infected adults and adolescents who have novel H1N1 flu should get antiviral treatment."

Dr. Brooks says people with HIV should maintain a healthy lifestyle to support their immune systems.