Novel H1N1 (Swine Flu) and Concerns for People Living With HIV
August 31, 2009 A total of 8,843 hospitalized cases of swine flu
have been confirmed in all 50 states, DC and Puerto Rico. 556
deaths have occurred. National statistics are updated weekly by
the Centers for Disease Control. The CDC has described the most
common symptoms for those who were admitted to the hospital,
along with conditions that may be risk factors for more severe
disease. Underlying health issues are all common in those who
have been hospitalized with novel H1N1 flu, and include problems
with immunosuppression, chronic lung conditions (asthma, COPD,
etc.), heart disease, diabetes and obesity. The most notable
symptoms were fever, cough, vomiting, dehydration and shortness
of breath. Diarrhea was uncommon. As this is a newly developed
flu strain, there's no information as to its effect on people
with HIV. Using the Interim CDC Guidelines would be appropriate
for people with HIV. A diagnostic test kit has been developed
and distributed