H1N1 And HIV Convergence: 6 Alarming Facts On Two Pandemics Joining Forces In 2014
By Ryan Inoyori
Au.ibtimes.com
January 6, 2014
H1N1 and HIV have joined forces in 2014 pandemic convergence infecting lives without any guaranteed cure. The outbreak has been declared in Canada as H1N1 is continuously spreading, making HIV patients vulnerable. Here are six facts you should be aware of why both are related to each other.
Flu-like Symptoms
H1N1 and HIV can cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, headache and body pains. However, H1N1 definitely presents symptoms unlike HIV that can be asymptomatic for years. Both are caused by viruses which also likely to mutate faster than bacteria between hosts and environmental factors.
Infection Rates Are Up
According to Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1 million people aging from 13 and older are living with HIV in the U.S. alone at the end of 2009. While H1N1 infected more than 200 in Venezuela in May 2013 and have killed five people in Canada in January this year. Since there is no cure, infection and fatality will grow if prevention and vaccine implementation fails to contain H1N1.
No Cure
Unfortunately, there is no known cure against H1N1 and HIV. In October 2009, a vaccine in the form of a nasal spray was approved for use and in two weeks’ time an injectable version was released in the same month. HIV patients can sustain normal living by taking antiretroviral drug therapy and prevent it from reaching AIDS.
Fatality Is Possible
Both H1N1 and HIV can cause fatal outcomes to infected people. Lifestyle, diet and environment can affect recovery from H1N1 and if left untreated, death is the result. Lack of maintenance on HIV can also lead to several complications such as AIDS and Kaposi’s sarcoma. It is best to get help if you suspect you have it.
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