Do you have HIV/AIDS and are you going on a trip? On this page you will find information to consider before and during your trip.
TRAVELING WITH HIV / AIDS
HIV is a viral infection that affects the immune system. You can contract the disease through contact with infected blood. Examples include injuring yourself with a used needle or other medical instruments, a blood transfusion and unprotected sexual intercourse. In some cases, a mother can transmit it to her child during childbirth. Today, HIV can be effectively suppressed with medication; however, this medication may affect advice we give regarding vaccinations and travel.
HIV/AIDS AND VACCINATIONS
Most vaccinations can be given safely. With live attenuated vaccines, such as the yellow fever vaccine, there is sometimes a contraindication with certain medications used to treat HIV. In some cases, we recommend additional vaccinations or precautions. Much of the advice depends on how your immune system works with HIV, which varies from person to person.
HIV/AIDS AND MALARIA
There may be an interaction between some malaria medications and medications used to treat HIV (viral inhibitors). This depends on what medication you are taking and will be discussed with your doctor. There is no increased risk of contracting malaria when you are infected with HIV.
HIV/AIDS AND ANTIBIOTICS
You may consider taking antibiotics for intestinal infections or respiratory infections. In many cases, this can be prescribed in consultation with your doctor. You should be aware that with diarrhoea, some medications may not work as well.
Tailored advice for HIV/Aids
Recommendations for vaccinations and malaria medication are always personalized and in many cases depend on your CD4 level (the functioning of your immune system) and medication use. Your medical history is also important in getting proper advice. For example, it is important to know whether you have had measles, typhoid fever (salmonella), influenza or pneumococcus or if you have been vaccinated against any of these. An increased risk of getting tuberculosis may also be important. All these things are included in your personal travel advice.
Depending on how well your immune system is working, it is possible to do a titer test (antibody check) after certain vaccinations. This allows us to see if the vaccination has worked and therefore whether you are sufficiently protected to travel safely.
Do you have questions or would you like to book an appointment?
If you have any questions or would like to book an appointment for personal (travel) advice, you can use the button below, email via info@vaccinatiecentrum.nl or call 085-9020303.