In summary:
1. People with CD4 >200 and undetectable on ART are considered at no greater risk than the general population; follow general advice.
2. People with CD4 <200, detectable viral load or not on ART may be at higher risk of severe illness; follow general advice.
3. People with a CD4 count <50 or opportunistic illness in last 6 months; follow shielding advice for extremely vulnerable.
aspirin acts as a mild antiviral (or it was something else idk)Aspirin was found to be highly effective against influenza A H1N1 virus. The antiviral activity against further respiratory RNA viruses was less distinct. Respiratory syncytial virus was minimally inhibited. However, the activity of aspirin against rhinoviruses was more pronounced. Aspirin demonstrated antiviral activity against all human rhinoviruses (HRV), but the effect on members of the "major group" viruses, namely HRV14 and HRV39, was greater than on those of the "minor group," HRV1A and HRV2
Guys... everything is just fine, our president has put mike pence in charge. With his proven record fighting viral outbreaks, we can count on him to protect us
I’m not trying to scare anyone but interested in hearing peoples opinions on how the HIV population should be dealing with this and what are your thoughts about our chances of survival compared to the general population?
Well put Delby.
I hope this doesn't turn into the tiresome two groups of people arguing back n forth but ends up being productive. Not all of us are in the same compartment of the boat. Some of us have a low CD4 count while others have numbers of a negative person.
This is also concerning to me. I'm here to understand more. I don't think I have incites on this other than to become familiar and aware with where it's spreading, reading world health organization pages on the coronavirus, and what precautions to take. I don't believe it's fully understood at this point so being proactive isn't a bad idea. I mean they are saying it can be contagious if you are within 6' of a carrier. What about if you are 7' from a carrier, so then are we safe? I'm not underestimating their word for it. We are all here from not being diligent in protecting ourselves from one virus. If that doesn't give us something to reflect on then what will?
One thing to protect ourselves is get the pneumonia vaccine, if you haven't had it yet. There are two different vaccines, the Prevnar 13 and the Pneumovax 23. The Pneumovax covers more strains of bacteria than the Prevnar 13.
There may be different versions of these outside the US.
Reports from China say most of the Coronavirus patients who died, died from pneumonia.
If you haven't already had the pneumonia vaccine, get it yesterday!
You gan go get all the available pneumonia vaccines available...but they won't do shit to protect you from this specific virus.
Nothing we can do except wear mask & wash hand as much as possible.
cannot be wearing a "space suit" when leaving house.
Unless you are living or visiting a location where there is "cluster infection" there is no point to be "worry", life has to go on.
Yeah right ::)
.....there is NO vaccine (yet) for the Corona COVID-19 virus ...period !
You gan go get all the available pneumonia vaccines available...but they won't do shit to protect you from this specific virus.
Yeah right ::)
.....there is NO vaccine (yet) for the Corona COVID-19 virus ...period !
You gan go get all the available pneumonia vaccines available...but they won't do shit to protect you from this specific virus.
goes away quickly with the warmth of the weather.unfortunately weather doesn't have anything to do with it.
Thanks Jim again for the info.
It's a general belief here as well,that warm weather gets rid of the flu.a lot of people believe the old wives' tale that going outside in the cold weather with wet hair leads to having a cold. However, a cold is a virus (rhinovirus) that people catch by being exposed to a person infected with the virus. The weather has nothing to do with it.....except in cold weather, more people are inside more and in more contact with other people, and hence the rhinovirus is exposed to more people in the winter than in the summer. coincidence is not causation. Fewer people are sicker in warm weather because so many people aren't stuck in their houses with sick people ;)
unfortunately our American President seems to understand little about health care. He thinks the "heat" of Spring will kill it off. He believes that a vaccine could be ready in weeks. He doesn't understand the difference between vaccines and cures. He doesn't understand that less access to health care (testing and treatment) WILL lead to furthering an epidemic not ending an epidemic.
I just went to my infectious disease doctor who told me that I need not to worry about the Corona and HIV together... Just take the precautions the CDC has is put in place and continue life as normal. There is no need to panic. I feel reassured but, nonetheless, worried!
BJ doesn’tseem tothink
How you doing? How’s everyone feeling? Are you nervous Jim?
One of the parents of my child’s class has come down with Covid. Likely now that my child has it. Seems that no one will escape this virus.
All the reports seem to suggest that we are only marginally worse off than the general population or maybe not even that. What do you think?
"Scientists figure out how new coronavirus breaks into human cells"
https://www.livescience.com/how-coronavirus-infects-cells.html
I speculate Drugs and or a Vaccine is a long ways away.
He seems to be demagogic and wants to seem almighty and powerful. He doesn't seem to understand that it's a pandemic and he should be worried and make preparations for the whole country.
People in Greece have gone mental (except the island I live in,because the 4 people that have the virus are stationary) and emptied all the rubbing alcohol from the stores,now I don't have any to put on my earing .
Some idiot politician here tried to telemarket some snake oil to "cure" the thing and he was charged (he is also a politician in the parliament). We are living epic times here.....
I don’t know how any of you have got the head for those types of movies. I’m happy watching mindless crap at the moment! Jim you’re a brave man!
I love zombieland! You should watch "The coherence",it creeps the sh$t out of me,but it's a really good movie!
So in the UK we are still seemingly following the deeply flawed approach of gunning for 'herd immunity', which in a nutshell is that the virus will die off if enough % of the population are immune to it (so it struggles to spread) so you accept that lots of people will get the virus, but recommend strategies that make it more likely that the fittest, healthiest people are the ones that do and develop immunity, thus protecting the weaker or less healthy.
Wondering should I be concerned? CD lingers at 337 and last VL was 70? Thoughts? Hate to be paranoid but won’t to realistic understand my level of threat...
Yeah,I'm very worried about my brother working in the UK in a company where most people do business out of the country. I talk to him every day to make sure he is fine though.
The small businesses will take the huge hit,only takeaway type of places work normally now. It's a matter of time before everyone becomes a hypochondriac.
This reminds me of the Japanese anime "high school of the dead" where everyone becomes a zombie and there are 2 girls claiming they are bbfs forever while running,and then one gets caught by the zombies while still holding her hand ,the other friend replies with "let go of me. Bitch! I said let go!". Something similar is today with most people on the island
Thanks Jim
Caveyuk, what makes you assume that the supply chain of meds won’t be disrupted and at worst stopped all together. If factories close down, haulage companies cease to operate etc etc than it is entirely plausible. The scale of this is unprecedented and none of us can predict exactly how this may pan out.
With a bit of luck this thing will peak in the coming weeks, and if vaccines can be fast-tracked hopefully the vast majority of us won't ever be exposed to any symptomatic illness. As long as we follow the universal guidelines about distancing, close contact, hand washing etc.
I appreciate good thoughts and attempts at helping reduce anxiety, but I have to point out that this is most assuredly NOT what the scientists and doctors are saying.
I am seeing too many people on my social media feeds, still hanging out in taverns, casinos and other group settings. The "I have to live my life" mindset is the enemy of us all.
Mike
I appreciate good thoughts and attempts at helping reduce anxiety, but I have to point out that this is most assuredly NOT what the scientists and doctors are saying.
While driving around today we also noticed many restaurants with empty parking lots.
Makes sense that people are reducing those kinds of gatherings and activities, prehaps in part the message of social distancing is kicking in.
Here gov has called on pubs ect to close until the 29th of Match
https://www.independent.ie/world-news/coronavirus/coronavirus-ireland-all-pubs-asked-to-close-as-40-new-cases-of-covid-19-confirmed-39045775.html
Same in a couple states here so far:
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/live-updates-ohio-illinois-closing-bars-and-restaurants-to-stem-coronavirus-federal-reserve-slashes-interest-rates-to-zero/ar-BB11cwEA?li=BBnb7Kz
That IS a cracking infographic Jim!
And in other news, as if there wasn't a case for disliking Trump already, this is doing the rounds (apologies for a Daily Mail link although it's been reported elsewhere too)...
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8114015/Donald-Trump-tries-pay-German-company-creating-experimental-coronavirus-vaccine-US.html
That IS a cracking infographic Jim!
Skydrake....can u out that in more understandable terms?
Thanks Jim for ur post, my anxiety is outta the roof right now. Almost more than when I was diagnosed. I was literally shaking last night. 😭
Thanks Jim for ur post, my anxiety is outta the roof right now. Almost more than when I was diagnosed. I was literally shaking last night. 😭
I been hearing a lot about antivirals being used to treat Covid-19 but not so much in US main stream media. I hope it is something that really works, hope my triumeq does it too.
I been hearing a lot about antivirals being used to treat Covid-19 but not so much in US main stream media. I hope it is something that really works, hope my triumeq does it too.
Also found this report about a 17yo who created a website to track the Corvid-19 as far back as December fascinating..
https://www.democracynow.org/2020/3/13/meet_the_17_year_old_behind
https://ncov2019.live/
There is a reluctance (fear of lawsuits?) in the US to try a non-approved treatment. There were doctors on TV saying there is no treatment for Covid-19. At that same time there were reports of antivirals being used in other countries.
HIV medications were used in another viral outbreak a few years back. (SARS? MERS?) That one didn't reach the US in any numbers.
I'm not sure how off-label usage of drugs works in the USA.
POZ.Com full write-up
https://www.poz.com/article/china-uses-hiv-meds-treat-new-coronavirus
Interesting "truth told correctly" article on comparing current Coronavirus to historical AIDS situation.and this take from Mark King
There is a webpage but not sure I can post it here?
Today’s children will tell their own children and grandchildren about the national holiday in 2020 that had no parades or parties, but instead saw everyone staying at home to protect each other.
In years to come, let them say of us, when things were at their worst, we were at our best.
Our country is making big demands of our healthcare staff, big demands of every single one of us.
The vast majority of us who contract Covid-19 will experience a mild illness, but some will be hospitalised and sadly some people will die.
We cannot stop this virus but working together we can slow it in its tracks and push it back.
We can, as you have heard by now, flatten the curve. But only if everyone takes sustained action. Nothing less will do.
Large public gatherings are cancelled. All pubs and bars are shut.
We have also asked people to curtail or cancel social gatherings like parties, weddings and other celebrations. I know these choices won’t be easy,but they are necessary.
More will be required in the coming weeks to reduce the spread of the virus. At all times we will be guided by, and take the expert advice, from our Public Health Emergency Team led by the Chief Medical Officer.
We will always put your life and your health ahead of any other concern. All resources that we have, financial and human, are being deployed to serve this great national effort.
Many of you want to know when this will be over.
The truth is we don’t know yet.
As you plan your life it will mean avoiding unnecessary journeys. Shopping online from local businesses and getting things delivered rather than physically going to the premises.
In short – we are asking people to come together as a nation by staying apart from each other.
Tonight I know many of you are feeling scared and overwhelmed. That is a normal reaction, but we will get through this and we will prevail.
We need to halt the spread of the virus but we also need to halt the spread of fear.
So please rely only on information from trusted sources. From Government, from the HSE, from the World Health Organisation and from the national media.
Do not forward or share messages that are from other, unreliable sources. So much harm has already been caused by those messages, and we must insulate our communities and the most vulnerable from the contagion of fear.
Fear is a virus in itself.
Please take regular breaks from watching news and media, and from consuming social media. Constantly scrolling on your phone or obsessively following the latest developments is not good for anyone.
Look after your mental health and well-being as well as your physical health.
Tonight on our national holiday I also want to send a message around the world that we are all in this together.
To the people of China, Spain and Italy who have suffered untold heartbreak and loss – we are with you.
To all of those across the world who have lost a loved one to this virus – we are with you.
To all those living in the shadow of what is to come – we are with you.
Viruses pay no attention to borders, race, nationality or gender.
They are the shared enemy of all humanity.
So it will be the shared enterprise of all humanity that finds a treatment and a vaccine that protects us.
Tonight I send a message of friendship and of hope from Ireland to everyone around the world this Saint Patrick’s Day.
Lá Fheile Pádraig shona daoibh!
Jim, thanks for all your even-keeled reportage. It's comforting.
Cal
It’s important to underline that there is currently no strong evidence that people living with HIV are at an especially increased risk of contracting COVID-19 or, that if they do contract it, they will experience a worse outcome. As in the general population, older people living with HIV or people living with HIV with heart or lung problems may be at a higher risk of getting the virus and of suffering more serious symptoms. As for the general population, people living with HIV should take all recommended preventive measures to minimize exposure and prevent infection. As COVID-19 continues to spread around the world, it will be important for ongoing research in settings with a high prevalence of HIV in the general population to shed more light on the biological and immunological interactions between HIV and the new coronavirus.
My father was just put into quarantine an hour ago
My mother is under quarantine in the hospital with cough, fever, trouble breathing, delirium......
I did ask my doctor this question but i dont want to be answering a medical question here and get something wrong.
All of the social distancing is not going to stop this but rather slow it down. I feel like everyone is doing the right thing, but lets face it....people are still going to get this.
There is so much information out there but there is some lack of clarity and completeness. There are also many questions that haven't been addressed.
To find the latest updates POZ.com has continuing coronavirus coverage specifically for people living with HIV here: https://www.poz.com/tag/coronavirus
Few valuable links.
What People With HIV Need to Know About the New Coronavirus
https://www.poz.com/article/people-hiv-need-know-new-coronavirus
Experts shed light on coronavirus response and its implications for people with HIV
https://www.aidsmap.com/news/mar-2020/experts-shed-light-coronavirus-response-and-its-implications-people-hiv
https://www.bhiva.org/comment-from-BHIVA-and-THT-on-UK-Government-Guidance-on-Social-Distancing
More detail is expected soon and this may include specific advice for people living with HIV based on viral load and CD4 count, as people on HIV treatment with a good CD4 and undetectable viral load are not usually considered to have a "weakened immune system" as specified in the PHE guidance. BHIVA and THT will aim to inform the HIV community about new developments in the field as they emerge but right now we recommend following PHE’s "social distancing" advice which does not necessarily mean "self-isolation."
UNAIDS.
https://www.unaids.org/en/resources/presscentre/featurestories/2020/march/20200312_covid-19
It’s important to underline that there is currently no strong evidence that people living with HIV are at an especially increased risk of contracting COVID-19 or, that if they do contract it, they will experience a worse outcome. As in the general population, older people living with HIV or people living with HIV with heart or lung problems may be at a higher risk of getting the virus and of suffering more serious symptoms. As for the general population, people living with HIV should take all recommended preventive measures to minimize exposure and prevent infection. As COVID-19 continues to spread around the world, it will be important for ongoing research in settings with a high prevalence of HIV in the general population to shed more light on the biological and immunological interactions between HIV and the new coronavirus.
"Repeating what your doctor told you about your own case is fine, just know that people may comment. In the meantime, why say something if you are not going to mention what it was. ;)"
Purely random thought, but I wonder with the social distancing if we will see a drop in "Am I infected" posters. Also, in areas with lockdowns will we see a baby boom in the 9 months time...
1... not a chance, you get back to your salt mine!
2... covid kids, the wuhan generation ain't nothing to fuck with
Dad covid negative. Pancreas again, same pattern for years.
Thanks Mike
Now is just a lousy time to have a medical emergency... covid or not.
With resources being prioritized, maybe worse for negative people.
If not then worse case scenario you will be without for a few weeksa quick note in a "worst case scenario", don't half-ass take your meds. Either take all your meds every day.... or don't take them at all.
I just saw that the lockdown will happen and people will need to fill out forms online to go out (supermarket etc),Idk if the post office will be open or not,but I'll phone in the ward tomorrow and see if I can actually get meds or not. I am feeling like I can't even breathe or walk. And it's not like I didn't call sooner and they denied me and said "call later" twice.
Anyways,I'll sew what happens tomorrow.
Good news: The post is open and I can get my meds by filling a form to go out.
I thank you so much for calming me down,I'm sorry I went blabbering and panicking. Again thanks.
Jim, have there been actual cases of coinfection?
Nothing new as such regarding risks, etc.
https://www.poz.com/article/covid19-advice-people-hiv-experts-know
In the section for all people with HIV, AIDSinfo notes that:
- The limited data currently available do not indicate that the disease course of COVID-19 in persons with HIV differs from that in persons without HIV. Before the advent of effective combination antiretroviral therapy…advanced HIV infection [such as when a CD4 cell count is less than 200] was a risk factor for complications of other respiratory infections. Whether this is also true for COVID-19 is yet unknown.
- Some people with HIV have other comorbidities (e.g., cardiovascular disease or lung disease) that increase the risk for a more severe course of COVID-19 illness. Chronic smokers are also at risk of more severe disease.
- Thus, until more is known, additional caution for all persons with HIV, especially those with advanced HIV or poorly controlled HIV, is warranted.
it's been raining too so I can't stay and sunbathe in the terrace.
How is everyone else doing?
Ed and I are doing great so far. We're just following all the guidelines that are in place, Social distancing etc.
We go shopping once every 5 days. And we don't hord. We get out and walk everyday, We're doing about 2 miles a day.
Ed and I love cooking, so no problem there. But previous to all this we went out almost daily and had lunch. We are also supporting our local restaurants that remain open for take-out, By ordering and taking out when we decide not to cook.
We are also doing plenty of projects around the house, that keeps us busy.
Stay well Everyone---Ray
I am here a Hong Kong people also under this coronavirus pandemic at the early stage but we are all really alert and good experience as we faced 2003 SARS. I know most western countries thinking of Asian is overreacting about putting on "MASKS" which is useless at all. However, i really pleased you all even positive and negative people. Don't under estimate this virus. Please pay your responsibility to yourself and others , Mask can protect you get rid of 2 orifice not contacting the droplets when you are in bus, taxi or other crowded place, it can minimize you to touch your face, on the other hand, put on mask can protect others as the virus having no symptoms at the beginning but can be transmitted to others. We have many cases that they exposed in bars, restaurants, church as they are neglecting on not putting on masks during gatherings. Moreover, as you know for testing the virus result is just the same as testing HIV and hepatitis. These 2 disease would be given you knowledge that they have a long period of time with no symptoms but can be transmitted by blood and body fluid. Coronavirus is by droplets.
Please be aware yourself with good protection and best personal hygiene.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RLvg0KnTKhU
Is there a way to get them sent via post,because that's how I get mine. Try to ask in the ward if they can send it to you.
A driver flouted the coronavirus lockdown to pick up £15 windows with his wife in the boot of his car.
The man, who had bought the windows on eBay, was stopped by police on the M6 in Cheshire on Sunday after collecting his purchase in Salford.
Police said his wife had to sit in the boot as she "could not fit in the vehicle" for the return journey to Coventry.
North West Motorway Police issued the man with a traffic offence report.
After the force tweeted news of the 220-mile round trip people reacted with a mixture of shock and disbelief.
Diabetes, Lung Disease and Heart Disease Appear to Raise COVID-19 Risk
This finding, which is in keeping with initial studies out of China and Italy, is preliminary as the CDC continues to gather data.
An initial analysis of a small subset of more than 120,000 COVID-19 cases reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that people with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, chronic lung disease and cardiovascular disease, appear to be at higher risk for severe disease associated with the new coronavirus than people without these conditions.
These findings are in keeping with previous studies out of China and Italy, where the coronavirus outbreak first spread especially widely, as well as other sources.
The researchers had at their disposal data on the presence of underlying health conditions among 7,162 (5.8%) of the 122,653 people with COVID-19. Thirty-eight percent of these individuals had at least one underlying health condition or other risk factor. The most common such conditions were diabetes (11%), chronic lung disease (9.2%) and cardiovascular disease (9.0%). These conditions were followed by being immunocompromised (3.7%) and having chronic kidney disease (3.0%). Less than 1% had chronic liver disease.
The study authors did not report any data regarding people living with HIV. Although being immunocompromised is a COVID-19 risk factor, experts say that HIV-positive people who had a fully suppressed viral load thanks to antiretroviral treatment do not appear to be at greater risk because of their HIV status.
Had my last labs done on March 13th. Will visit with the infectious disease Doctor at the VA hospital on April 13th, to discuss those results. So far no cancellation.
Ray
Hi, just wondered how everyone around the world is managing their 6 monthly testing and replenishing their arvs during pandemic?
Is it a good idea to go to your clinic or doctor for HIV-related appointments at this time?
AIDSinfo advises those with a suppressed viral load and stable health to postpone routine visits if possible. Concerned individuals could instead call their doctor or use telemedicine to replace face-to-face meetings.
Persons with HIV Should:
Maintain on-hand at least a 30-day supply—and ideally a 90-day supply—of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs and other medications.
Talk to their pharmacists and/or healthcare providers about changing to mail order delivery of medications when possible.
Persons for whom a regimen switch is planned should consider delaying the switch until close follow-up and monitoring are possible.
Lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r) has been used as an off-label treatment for patients with COVID-19 and clinical trials are underway globally. If protease inhibitors (PIs) are not already part of a person’s ARV regimen, their regimen should not be changed to include a PI to prevent or treat COVID-19, except in the context of a clinical trial and in consultation with an HIV specialist. In a small open-label trial, 199 hospitalized patients with COVID-19 were randomized to either 14 days of LPV/r plus standard of care or standard of care alone. No statistically significant difference was seen between the two groups, with regards to time to clinical improvement or mortality.1
HIV Clinics
Are HIV clinics still operating?
Yes, however some clinics are closed to new appointments and are rescheduling existing appointments. Many HIV clinic staff including infectious disease specialists, nurses, and administrative staff are currently working on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you are due to attend a clinic you will be contacted in relation to your appointment and / or the collection of medication. If you are displaying symptoms of COVID-19 please do not attend and contact the clinic by phone.
If you telephone your clinic and receive a recorded message, you should leave a voice message with your name, your contact number, and your hospital number (if you know it) so that the clinic staff can contact you.
My clinic cancelled my appointment and I have not been given a new appointment date. What should I do?
If your clinic has postponed or cancelled your appointment, you should receive a new appointment date in due course. If you do not receive an appointment date, and you require one, you should contact the clinic.
If you require an urgent appointment, you should contact the clinic and explain.
I am newly diagnosed with HIV. What should I do?
If you are newly diagnosed with HIV and you are unsure what to do or need additional support, please contact your GP / healthcare provider.
Anyways, my son and I are safe and healthy thus far. Wearing face masks and staying in! My job cut my hours to 24 hours which stinks but apparently i can file for unemployment here. We are sad that his school is closed and went to online learning but at this time, better to be safe and home then out there.
How about y'all? Anyone in same boat? Anyone struggling with being healthy while others are getting sick? Is the paranoia creeping in that "I" could get infected?here in SC, my husband, who has been poz since 90 (about 5 yrs less than me but never aidsy/hospitalized) is working at a home improvement store m-f. Unfortunately as they are making money hand-over-fist (large dollars every day for the last 2 weeks. larger than black friday. and record sales for the last 2 weekends) will never close down unless the gov declares it. Of course, gov. mcmaster is a republican idiot and believes that jebus will protect us, ain't nobody gonna take our guns, and all sorts of stores are "essential", so we still have all sorts of people out and about.
I was fortunate enough to have my doctor to send me an online prescription for 6 months even though I had to cancel my April check up due to our local quarantine in Chile.
My lab results were normal so that makes me feel thankful I was allowed not to go the clinic for a new prescription.
I am friends with about 10+ guys who are hiv+ and take their anti-viral meds “religiously” . NONE of my friends have become ill with Covid-19, even without social distancing measures, during the beginning, to now, during the Covid-19 pandemic. Could hiv antivirals really help in alleviating Covid-19 infection?
No. Your example isn't even anecdotal
Some studies reported that lymphocytopenia might be related to mortality, especially in patients with low levels of CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ T lymphocytes.https://www.nature.com/articles/s41423-020-0424-9
I personally wouldn't let my guard down with this thing bc we don't know all there is to know about it.
“We Are Seeing Few Cases of HIV-Positive People With Severe COVID-19”
As a result, researchers in Spain are testing whether HIV med Truvada, often used as PrEP, can also prevent COVID-19.
The British HIV Association gives the following advice:
People with a CD4 count over 200, who are taking HIV treatment and have an undetectable viral load are considered at no greater risk than the general population. They should follow general advice to stay at home and maintain social distancing.
People with a CD4 count below 200, or who are not taking HIV treatment, or who have a detectable viral load may be at higher risk of severe illness. Nonetheless, they should still follow the same general advice.
People with a very low CD4 count below 50 or who have had an opportunistic illness in the last six months should follow the ‘shielding’ advice for the extremely vulnerable.
So with the news about remdesivir having promising results treating Covid19 a question came to mind. If an HIV patient is currently taking something such as Atripla, Complera, Stribild or the like, would that person be able to take remdesivir in the event of a Corona Virus infection?
Im just curious as to weather or not it might interfere with workings of the medication being taken to treat HIV. It seems essentially that it would be adding a 4th (in some cases 5th) component to the "cocktail".
I am doing the same; too much news about COVID19, chokes me up and makes me anxious.
.
My parents are living overseas and it's driving me crazy not being able to visit them and to help where possible. I had to cancel my trip next may/june because of the total lock-down.
We are on a much longer leash overhere, and can move around quite easy as long as we observe the social distance measurements. However I choose to only go to the stores for food or as yesterday to the pharmacy for my meds.
I know some people who contracted the virus, but were mildly ill, and are now back to working from home.
I work at a large college in Amsterdam, organizing, planning and scheduling all the testings and exams, but the college decided to cancel all on site teaching activities till august 30. I now have nothing to do, and now sitting at home on furlough with full pay.
Like all others I have to be patient and sit this out.Hope you guys manage to keep well and sane
"unless it migrates to the cows ;D"
That would then be KOERONA. ;D
How is everyone managing in Thailand during lockdown for tests meds etc?
reality no one wants to spend their entire life at home
My dad actually wanted to give me a very Albanian sounding name (my grandfather's name) Reshef,but my grandma didn't really like him much so she chose Fabian for me 😂.
Yes,I have noticed Jesus is the most latino name,but nothing wrong with it. A man,I would love to call someone Emmanuel,it's very unique.
Monday Georgia ended the lockdown. Massage parlors, gyms, even the bathhouses and gloryholes are open.
The county I live in has only just been hit
However, hospitals are inflating the numbers and padding them. Fact: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/factcheck/2020/04/24/fact-check-medicare-hospitals-paid-more-covid-19-patients-coronavirus/3000638001/?fbclid=IwAR1hxGptE_RNmbbT15le6e7zu3Vgo6kok28qBM3z4TYQjSI9ldOF2UN399g
An old acquaintance -- an ex of my closest friend -- died today of cv19. He was fine, generally, but had underlying conditions: aside from hiv (which was under control), he was diabetic and had toxoplasmosis (which I didn't realize you can never rid yourself of, once you get it).
He didn't want any extraordinary measures taken, he had said when he was still aware enough of what was going on. So, no intubation etc.
Ah well. My sister-in-law's mother died yesterday of causes related to old age. The world turns.
The one-day meeting will feature leaders in the national and global pandemic response.
Many of the global HIV experts who will attend AIDS 2020 are also at the forefront of COVID-19 virology, immunology, clinical care, and treatment and vaccine research.
The COVID-19 Conference will feature Anthony Fauci, MD, and Ambassador Deborah Birx, MD, who have a long history of leadership in the national and global HIV/AIDS response and are now members of the White House COVID-19 Task Force, as well as long-time HIV researcher Salim Abdool Karim, MD, PhD, chair of the South African Ministry of Health’s COVID-19 Advisory Committee.
Registration for the COVID-19 Conference—which is separate from AIDS 2020: Virtual registration—is now open. The COVID-19 sessions will publicly available and free of charge.
studies have shown in the link below that Azithromycin and Chloroquine work best. Reason why Fauci now is pushing Remdesivir is because of the cost being so high as we all know. Pharma doesnt make enough on a malaria drug
I don't want to see this board descend into conspiracy and propaganda.
The hydroxychloroquine study examined virological clearance — the medicine's ability to lower how much of the virus remains in the body. After a week, the placebo cleared 93% of the virus vs. 87% clearance for those who received hydroxychloroquine
Still, generic pharmaceutical companies Teva Pharmaceutical (TEVA) and Mylan (MYL), which are increasing production of hydroxychloroquine tablets for potential coronavirus treatment, notched gains Tuesday.
"We have to extend current restrictions until May 18."
The latest updates in short are:
Current restrictions will last until May 18
Government has plan to loosen restrictions from May 18
From next Tuesday, 2km from home exercise limit has been extended to 5km
From next Tuesday cocooning over 70s can leave home for a drive or walk "as long as you are not in contact with anybody"
Until we have a vaccine or treatment there will be a long term need for physical distancing
Outdoor work like construction and landscaping will resume from May 18
Some garden and hardware stores to reopen on May 18
Some actives and sports to resume on May 18
Some recreation facilities like cinemas and theatres to reopen later than May 18
Schools and colleges to reopen in September
Cabinet to discuss getting enterprises back up and running and employees back to work tomorrow
70pc of those diagnosed with Covid-19 have made a full recovery
May 18
Outdoors workers
Garden centres
Construction
Gardening
Fishing
Golf and tennis and angling
June 8
Some retail
Larger funerals
Small meetings allowed indoors
Marts and libraries
"The coronavirus is cruel an inhuman," the Taoiseach concluded.
"The tragedy of every death is made far worse by the fact that we cannot come together to mourn loved ones.
"When we come through this we will come together as a nation and grieve this for everyone who has died."
Question, I'm would be interested to hear how other forums member with school-aged children are coping? Mine are 10 and 8.
Are you getting your kids to do school work at home and how is that going?
Any tips?
Mine are 10 (nearly 11) n 7. Older one is in a different school n he got Zooms with the class teacher 3-4 times a week. She also sends out videos too. So he does the zooms & keeps up the work. Though somedays he can give plenty of bad attitude, not wanting to tidy his room etc.
The 7 year old. His school emails out PDFs of the work, so have to print them out (of course printer ink ran out last weekend 🙄), and they send loads of stuff but with a “so your best” ethos. This is more of a headache, so I just focus on reading, writing n get him to do the maths. The Irish n other stuff can wait until September. Harder to get him to focus or start the work especially if he gets into the morning cartoons first! Then the bad attitude happens.
Overall it’s a pain in the butt if I am totally honest!
So read, keep up with the maths n that will keep him ticking over until school starts again.
My wife not being a native English speaker is useless with helping the homework so bounces it to me, then trying to work from home (not much biz happening right now due to corona anyway) so I think we’re all getting a bit tense with the school work.
Harder to get him to focus or start the work especially if he gets into the morning cartoons first! Then the bad attitude happens.
now take HIV and put it next to corona virus < I would not be surprised if they counter each other out > natural enemies who fight amongst them selves .
fight fire with fire , if it wore only that simple . in a petri dish they would cancel each other out creating a vaccine that would immunize people for both . or create a new strain of illness that might wipe everyone out >
Hope everyone is well !,...
My partner brought to my attention two days ago, an article he was reading about "Covid toes"
It peaked my interests, because for approximately 3 1/2 months, I have something on my left foot ( Second toe in that looks very much in what is described in this article, and picture. I have read several different articles since.
See link:
https://www.msn.com/en-in/health/familyhealth/what-are-covid-toes-dermatologists-podiatrists-share-strange-findings/ar-BB12OAfm
https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/BB12MJJ1.img?h=1084&w=799&m=6&q=60&o=f&l=f
Now, another condition possibly linked to the coronavirus has captured researchers' attention. Dubbed "COVID toes" by the dermatology community, it can look like "purple lesions" on feet or hands, Dr. Esther Freeman, a dermatologist at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, told TODAY.
This red spot on my second toe in on my left foot, looks almost identical to the picture in the link. It almost looks similar to what shingles looks like with a very slight blistering, in the early stages.
In my case it's not painful, and for the longest time, I was thinking that something was rubbing in my shoes, or perhaps my socks were irritating that particular toe. But nothing has changed in my footwear.
So I have kept it bandaged, with a daily smear of triple antibiotic ointment.
Once again, its not painful, I don't have the swolleness, that appears in the photo, and it's only on one toe. it appears to be going slowly away, but ever so slowly.
In all of my life, (68 years) I have never had any issues with my feet, and my feet were always healthy in appearance. Except for some mild Nephropathy as a result from HIV, I never had foot issues.
The other reason why I bring this up, In December for close to 3 weeks, I was really sick with a terrible non-stop cough, and quite a bit of respiratory shit going on. I think I reported it on a thread here, back when i had it. For 3 weeks I basically stayed home, was in bed most of the time, only getting up to go eat or use the restroom. It was a long and miserable 3 weeks. The coughing went on day and night. Sometimes I thought I was going to break a rib from all the coughing.
By the time I got to see my primary care doctor, I was about at the end of it and feeling much better, but, he ended up prescribing me a Z- pack for 5 days, as he still heard a lot of congestion in my lungs. The doctor thought I may have had the flu, but did not do a swab, to confirm. When I mentioned to to my infectious disease Dr, she thought a swab should have been done. It is what it is...
The Z pack ultimately cleared up everything, and I've been well ever since, Except for this thing in my one toe.
I will not diagnose myself, BUT, I am wondering if what I had in December was a milder form of covid-19. And perhaps, I built up antibodies.
So this will be part of the discussion when I see my doctor next. By the way, What ever I had, I also passed it on to my partner, and he was prescribed a z-pack as well.
He had it no where near as bad as I did but still made him miserable for 2 weeks. He also recovered quickly by the completion of his Z-pac.
Just seems kind of coincidental, an honestly, a little frightening. But as I stated, I am doing quite well with no issues. I will probably see if i can get an appointment set up with a podiatrist.
Take care ----Ray
does anyone else feel slightly slighted.
that this virus corona virus , covid-19 is getting the rush treatment while HIV and AIDS has been in the back seat in almost anyone's mind for many years .
like for sure , this one that has been around what the longest , a new kid on the block comes around and everyone is rushing to find results .
O well when the tally are calculated and the damage has been done ,
viruses who's idea was this ?
Nope, I don't feel slighted.
Totally different viruses. Transmission is different. Comparing apples with pears.
Viruses, bacteria, foodchain and madmen are all part of life.
Who's idea it is to think it all started as an idea ?
is something thought planed and then done or do the pieces just fall they way the should ? a chicken or the egg type question ?
I just asked a question to start a debate
EM
is something thought planed and then done or do the pieces just fall they way the should ? a chicken or the egg type question ?
the cure we have been waiting on and waiting on and then still waiting. maybe the social machine was using the fear of HIV AIDS as a tool to slow down unwanted pregnancies. population control . keep people from taking unnecessary risks sexually ?
EM
HIV AIDS was killing people who had lots of sexual partners . and who some might have thought degenerate sexual deviants who deserved not to be cared about . if they passed away the world would be a better place .
EM
And I remember Jerry Falwell something to the effect that this was gods punishment to the gay population for their sins. We're way past that sickening garbage.
Ray
HIV AIDS was killing people who had lots of sexual partners...
EM
I think alot of critical thinking is gone right now. MSM has brainwashed us and its sad to see this here on the board. People that are held in high regard for their work in the past have become evil (money, greed and power) but yet no one wants to believe it where it has clearly been proven. You just all turn a blind eye bowing down. I had thought more of this place when i first joined, yet more and more i see tyrannical shut downs instead of conversations to be had, warnings issued instead of asking questions.
em i think you are onto something even at the slightest. Usually the person that points the finger at conspiracy, isn't willing to look for themselves, nor think that there is 2 sides to every story out there.
to who ever said I need to find a therapist
and yes I am seeing a therapist and psychiatrist thanks for seeing that .and pointing out that some people may not see the world the way you might like them to .
sorry no I am not off my meds , thank you very much .
But, This thread is supposed to be about Coronavirus.
Definitely not about politics and conspiracy theories.[end quote author=skeebo1969]
I posted about being depressed since I still had to work no matter the people come in without masks or glove AND are upset because we don't have enough cashiers running or enough people on the floor.
I'm anxious about having to go in not simply because I'm POZ but the darker side of humanity shows.
My post got moved here and it seems the topic has shifted.
Definitely not about politics and conspiracy theories.
I'm still scratching my head about the comment about the blue states and their governors coordinating all this just in time for the election. I wonder how Italy plays in all this, very strange stuff.
HIV was unforgiving to the "denialists", however Covid-19 is definitely not as effective.
The divisive nature of all this is sad, but not surprising.
So who all is working in a service where they are interacting with people?
Are they social distancing? Wearing masks? Gloves?
How is their demeanor?
Hey Thomas,..
Hope you are all well. If I do any more head scratching, or slamming my head against the wall, I will end up with a bloody scalp , or a concussion. I hear ya.
The whole stench of all this just sickens me.
Stay Well--Ray
So who all is working in a service where they are interacting with people?
Are they social distancing? Wearing masks? Gloves?
How is their demeanor?
EM
With these latest cases of covid-19 in the West Wing, trump is "Lava-level Red " Mad, that he is not being protected more.
Now he knows what millions of Americans feel, on a daily bases. I think they should take his two sons and daughter, and spread them apart, and have them work for two weeks in the meat processing plants, along the line.
Perhaps they can volunteer themselves in a trial of vaccines.
The whole hypocrisy of this is that trump wants all Americans to act and go to work like nothing is happening at all.
Ray
I thought political posts were being derailed! And in that case if this is being allowed I will start posting about Gates, Birx, Fauci and everything they're linked to which are proven facts..let me know Jim Allen
How dare you state "all Americans feel". You have no right to speak for me.... Another MSM cover up with proven lack of facts being reported.
Sorry to hear you feel that way.
I'm not sure how it's one-sided. You are welcome to your opinions, so is everyone else including myself and Zach.
Any statements of fact need to be backed-up, in particular, when it's regarding anything medical or treatment-related. Solid peer-reviewed evidence is the standard expected from all members. This has always been the case.
Anyhow, hope you are doing okay during all of this. Best, Jim
MOD note:
@Pittgurl
Robust debate and expressing your opinion on subjects is welcome, however, the standard here is to provide references peer-reviewed published works for any health/medical/scientific information provided.
Understand that other members may also express their opinions, it seems from recent posts you are uncomfortable with that concept, however, that is how a forum and debate works.
Finally, if you have a problem with a member or a moderators decision then please report it, but trolling is not tolerated and, will be shut down as you put it.
https://forums.poz.com/index.php?topic=277.0
How dare you state "all Americans feel". You have no right to speak for me.... Another MSM cover up with proven lack of facts being reported.
Note:
The coronavirus outbreak continues to be a hot topic, as such, I have merged all related threads into this single sticky post.
I will continue to merge any new threads regarding the virus, this effort is not only to avoid duplication but also to ensure people who want to discuss it can and, with the latest information.
Additionally, this means that members who are finding the topic particularly distressing or those wishing to take a break from COVID-19 news can and aren't confronted with dozens of separate threads across the forum.
Finally, a small ask to please be additionally mindful and patient with each other during these times and to stay away and refrain from sharing unofficial/unreliable news sources or sensationalized media. Thank you.
Hope everyone is well !,...
My partner brought to my attention two days ago, an article he was reading about "Covid toes"
It peaked my interests, because for approximately 3 1/2 months, I have something on my left foot ( Second toe in that looks very much in what is described in this article, and picture. I have read several different articles since.
See link:
https://www.msn.com/en-in/health/familyhealth/what-are-covid-toes-dermatologists-podiatrists-share-strange-findings/ar-BB12OAfm
https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/BB12MJJ1.img?h=1084&w=799&m=6&q=60&o=f&l=f
Now, another condition possibly linked to the coronavirus has captured researchers' attention. Dubbed "COVID toes" by the dermatology community, it can look like "purple lesions" on feet or hands, Dr. Esther Freeman, a dermatologist at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, told TODAY.
Note the above pics are not my feet or toes !! :P
This red spot on my second toe in on my left foot, looks almost identical to the picture in the link. It almost looks similar to what shingles looks like with a very slight blistering, in the early stages.
In my case it's not painful, and for the longest time, I was thinking that something was rubbing in my shoes, or perhaps my socks were irritating that particular toe. But nothing has changed in my footwear.
So I have kept it bandaged, with a daily smear of triple antibiotic ointment.
Once again, its not painful, I don't have the swolleness, that appears in the photo, and it's only on one toe. it appears to be going slowly away, but ever so slowly.
In all of my life, (68 years) I have never had any issues with my feet, and my feet were always healthy in appearance. Except for some mild Nephropathy as a result from HIV, I never had foot issues.
The other reason why I bring this up, In December for close to 3 weeks, I was really sick with a terrible non-stop cough, and quite a bit of respiratory shit going on. I think I reported it on a thread here, back when i had it. For 3 weeks I basically stayed home, was in bed most of the time, only getting up to go eat or use the restroom. It was a long and miserable 3 weeks. The coughing went on day and night. Sometimes I thought I was going to break a rib from all the coughing.
By the time I got to see my primary care doctor, I was about at the end of it and feeling much better, but, he ended up prescribing me a Z- pack for 5 days, as he still heard a lot of congestion in my lungs. The doctor thought I may have had the flu, but did not do a swab, to confirm. When I mentioned to to my infectious disease Dr, she thought a swab should have been done. It is what it is...
The Z pack ultimately cleared up everything, and I've been well ever since, Except for this thing in my one toe.
I will not diagnose myself, BUT, I am wondering if what I had in December was a milder form of covid-19. And perhaps, I built up antibodies.
So this will be part of the discussion when I see my doctor next. By the way, What ever I had, I also passed it on to my partner, and he was prescribed a z-pack as well.
He had it no where near as bad as I did but still made him miserable for 2 weeks. He also recovered quickly by the completion of his Z-pac.
Just seems kind of coincidental, an honestly, a little frightening. But as I stated, I am doing quite well with no issues. I will probably see if i can get an appointment set up with a podiatrist.
Take care ----Ray
How is it going with your toe issue ?
Reading this article today on CNN, reminded me of you
https://edition.cnn.com/2020/05/12/health/coronavirus-symptoms-blood-clots-inflammation/index.html
"It can cause 'Covid toes'
One last symptom that is puzzling -- but less troubling -- is known as "Covid toes." Patients are reporting red or purple swelling of their toes."
Hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine, often in combination with a second-generation macrolide, are being widely used for treatment of COVID-19, despite no conclusive evidence of their benefit. Although generally safe when used for approved indications such as autoimmune disease or malaria, the safety and benefit of these treatment regimens are poorly evaluated in COVID-19.
In this large multinational real-world analysis, we did not observe any benefit of hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine (when used alone or in combination with a macrolide) on in-hospital outcomes, when initiated early after diagnosis of COVID-19. Each of the drug regimens of chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine alone or in combination with a macrolide was associated with an increased hazard for clinically significant occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias and increased risk of in-hospital death with COVID-19.
Today, to my great astonishment and disappointment, nine members of the Cook County Board of Commissioners voted to capitulate to ignorance and bigotry by voting to force the disclosure of the addresses of every patient who has tested positive for COVID-19.https://twitter.com/chicagosmayor/status/1263639082824896512?s=20 .. this has got to be a HIPAA violation, no?
Hi everyone, I'm gonna vent here a little if you don't mind.
A certain segment of the American population keep down playing this pandemic saying "look at the numbers, it's less than 1% deaths", jesus christ, are they really serious?.
Before this month is through, this thing will surpass a hundred thousand deaths here in the US and we've been in it for only 4 months? That's more than any full year of deaths from AIDS in the US.. and these people are whining about how wearing a goddamn mask infringes on their rights.. unbelievable!
Recently I stood on an outside line at a donut shop, and the dude in front of me wasn't wearing a mask >:( but I paid it no mind, just kept my 6ft. I winded up in the shop with this idiot bc they allow only 3 ppl in at a time. Then this idiot starts his blah, blah, blah, about "how stupid it is to stand on line, how stupid it is to wear a mask".. the clerk kept his cool and just kept asking him about what donuts he wanted, and kept interrupting his rant with "is that all sir?".
These kind of idiots are all over the place, not only not wearing a face cover but yapping away the same rightwing diarrhea president moron has encouraged. They're beyond selfish with no commonsense. I honestly am considering moving to Canada.
A discussion also came up in an HIV chat group about the similarities of HIV/AIDS and Covid-19. Imo I think it's apples and oranges. HIV is for life and carries stigma, Covid is a gamble with the odds in favor of young healthy ppl.
Personally I wouldn't want to die from neither of these just bc I wouldn't want to die period. But if I had to catch one (too late), I'd rather take my chances with the Covid. Thoughts?
I could go on and on, but I get so pissed off. I have a few friends that want the bars back open again. And I keep saying to them " ARE YOU SERIOUS ? " " ARE YOU NOT AWARE OF WHAT IS HAPPENING AROUND YOU?" Perhaps in a few months those people may not be around, or they may have survived, a few weeks of being in the hospital.
Did you see the video out of Daytona Beach yesterday,
https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2020/05/24/video-large-crowds-take-over-daytona-beach-shut-down-roads-bridges/
https://abc11.com/lake-of-the-ozarks-daytona-beach-social-distancing-ozark-party/6208566/
8)
POZ will be hosting a live discussion via Zoom on Monday, June 1st.
Webinar Speakers:Mark S. King
Award-winning blogger, author, speaker and HIV/AIDS advocate
Venita Ray
Deputy Director @PWN-USA
Charles Sanchez
HIV+ Writer, Performer, Director and Activist(https://i.postimg.cc/XJQBym8s/poz-at-home-covid-19-1.jpg)
Click https://www.pozathome.com/registration to register for #POZatHome
“Coping With #COVID19 and #HIV,” a live discussion via Zoom with Mark S.
King, Venita Ray and Charles Sanchez hosted by POZ editor-in-chief Oriol
Gutierrez at 7 p.m. EST, Monday, June 1.
We went into a bar that we have been going to for the last 40 years. They reopened this past Friday.
There was NO social distancing, no one except us was wearing mask, bartenders had no mask and no gloves.
The least they could do...
(https://media.tenor.com/images/9f328f2375209e08c42734a306bd9be8/tenor.gif)
Just kidding Ray, you did right thing to stay away.. indoors poses the biggest risk.
I really just want to head to the thrift stores, get rid of and find some stuff.. safely ofcourse.
So guess what? I'm not corona positive. I got a call the next day; they re-tested the swab and it came up negative. So I had to go back. Second test, negative. Did a third test today, and I'll get the result tomorrow, but I'm sure it'll be negative.
Warning! If you get the test, be prepared for the swab. Waaaaaay down the nasal cavity. Someone joked, "Good thing they didn't swab another orifice you have." Trust me, I've had rectal swabs and this nasal swab was was worse, stunningly uncomfortable!
HIV Emerges as Risk Factor for COVID-19 Death in South Africa
Having an undetectable viral load did not change the risk, which nevertheless was not as severe as the risk tied to diabetes.
The researchers noted that almost all those with HIV who died of COVID-19 had other health conditions. About half had diabetes, and approximately half had high blood pressure
So what happened?
My third test was negative, so that's good.
Because of the spike in cases, Mandatory face mask required in Tampa, in public places, Effective 5:00 this afternoon. It is also required in ST. Petersburg @ 5:00 today.
UPDATE 6/22/20
Received my result this morning for my Covid test that I did last Thursday.
Result : NOT DETECTED !! SO I was very pleased and happy about that.
However, I am still dealing with shortness of breath, dry cough, and muscle aches.
Pinellas County, Florida Commission Approves Mask Mandate, Effective June 24. I knew this was going to happen, should have happened sooner.
With very few exceptions Shops/Stores can go the way of the dinosaur as far as I am concerned. Understand not everyone will feel this way and there are those currently who rely on shops but maybe the future will be different
Cities without restaurants and shops are cities without a character, without a soul.
No one traveling, means no tourist. Sounds like a dystopian future from a sci-fy I don't want to read.
I would though agree that they can add or subtract from the character.
The ripple effect, more IT jobs, Support workers, Software developers, Drivers, Engineers, Storage facilities and history is filled with examples of people throwing their wooden shoes so to speak along the way into new ways of doing things.
That's my point, when much of the main street is lined with restaurants, cafes, shops and whatever... and many are forced to close, that's a lot of subtraction all at once.. that once thriving street becomes a very depressing place.
10,000 plus cases here in Florida, in a single day.
My inlaw who lives in Tampa has cought the damn thing. So far it's been only fever, head and body aches... fingers crossed it doesn't get any worse.
Some of those sworn to "protect and serve" have failed us miserably by refusing to wear a mask after our governor ordered ALL to do so.. wonder where these pigs got that idea to own the lib governor🤔..
https://www.oregonlive.com/coronavirus/2020/07/oregon-state-police-dont-wear-coronavirus-masks-as-they-patronize-corvallis-coffee-shop-despite-governors-order.html?
Really !! Love the comments
https://www.marketwatch.com/story/trump-says-a-face-mask-makes-him-look-like-the-lone-ranger-one-problem-with-that-2020-07-01
Ray
The news from Florida is concering indeed. Was talking to my team, some of them are based near Orlando and they are naturally worried, same goes from the guys working in Pune, India where they have reentered lockdown due to the increasing COVID cases.
https://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/covid-19-ten-person-limit-put-on-house-gatherings-as-pubs-to-stay-shut-until-august-10th-1.4305203
Pozzies are not good enough for the vaccine. Why am I not surprised.
"As large trials get underway to test the vaccines needed to stop the global coronavirus pandemic, one group has realized they are being left out and is not happy: People living with HIV."..
https://www.sciencemag.org/news/2020/08/groups-protest-exclusion-hiv-infected-people-coronavirus-vaccine-trials
I have a Pulmonary test scheduled for September 24th.
She informed me that I need to take a Covid test at least 3 days in advance, of getting this test.
So she scheduled a Covid test for SEP 21st @ 1:00 at the clinic, which is about 1 mile north of where we live.
Ray
They do not think masks should be worn . they justify this by saying they do not work because people are still getting sick ? After listening to their arguments I came up with a justification they should understand but most likely will not .
It finally caught up with me…,got the COVID, tested positive yesterday. I started to feel tired Wednesday. By Thursday morning I was sick just like a very bad cold with strep throat. I did a home antigen test which was negative. Bad cold continued all weekend & throat was raw red & sore. Tested positive yesterday. Kids have it, one is a little sick, the other is ok. Wife tested negative but claims to be sick (I’m not sure!?!, she’s a hypochondriac anyway). So stay home all week & isolate is the plan.
I think today Monday I’m over the worst 50% of it but still feel weak, tired & unmotivated to work from home. Going to have to reschedule my vampires appointment which is for this Wednesday now.
Further evidence that COVID breakthrough infections are more common in people living with HIV
A new study provides more evidence that people living with HIV who are vaccinated against COVID-19 are more likely to experience a breakthrough COVID infection compared to HIV-negative people. The good news is that – across the board – fully vaccinated people had less severe COVID illness than unvaccinated people.
The study, by Dr Jing Sun at Johns Hopkins University, follows another report showing that COVID-vaccinated people with HIV were more likely to experience breakthrough cases than HIV-negative people, regardless of CD4 counts or viral suppression.
The current research followed over 650,000 people throughout the US, 5% of whom had compromised immune systems, including over 8,500 people living with HIV. The cohort was mostly female (57%), had a median age of 51, and included participants from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. No data were available on CD4 count, viral load or HIV treatment.
The time frame covered in this analysis (December 2020 to September 2021) was similar to the previous report, including portions of infection waves where the Delta and previous variants were dominant in the US, but not including more recent periods when Omicron has become the most prevalent.
The researchers reported that COVID breakthrough infections were generally low at 2.8% six months after full vaccination (meaning all recommended doses of a particular vaccine had been administered).
However, vaccinated people with HIV (including both fully and partially vaccinated individuals) were 33% more likely to experience breakthrough cases compared to HIV-negative people, independent of other risk factors such as age and pre-existing medical conditions. This result is similar to the previous analysis, which showed a 44% higher likelihood in breakthrough cases, but the current report did not evaluate whether CD4 count or viral loads affected the risk of breakthrough or disease severity.
Between June and September 2021, when the Delta variant dominated, about seven breakthrough cases occurred each month for every 1000 fully vaccinated people with healthy immune systems. In the same time period, about nine breakthrough cases occurred each month for every 1000 fully vaccinated people with HIV. That number jumped to 12 breakthroughs each month for every 1000 partially vaccinated people with HIV, illustrating the benefit of full vaccination. Furthermore, across all participants and the entire evaluation period (pre- and post-Delta), those fully vaccinated were 28% less likely to experience breakthrough cases than those who were partially vaccinated.
In this analysis, a severe COVID outcome meant requiring mechanical ventilation, use of an artificial lung to deliver oxygen, or dying. In people with compromised immune systems (including people with HIV, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis as well as those who’d received organ and bone marrow transplants), fewer COVID infections were severe after full vaccination. While the analysis did not specifically break out people with HIV, severe outcomes occurred in 6.6% of unvaccinated immunocompromised people and reduced to 3.3% in those fully vaccinated.
However, vaccinated immunocompromised people were still significantly more likely to experience severe COVID illness compared to vaccinated people with healthy immune systems (less than 1% of whom had severe outcomes). The authors state this disparity warrants continuing behavioural protections for immunocompromised people, such as wearing masks, social distancing and avoiding crowded indoor settings.
These behavioural measures may be even more important in the face of the Omicron variant, which is more contagious and better at infecting vaccinated people than previous variants. While no research yet tells us how Omicron will impact people with HIV, the results in this study demonstrating that full vaccination protects against severe disease look to be true in the case of Omicron as well. Furthermore, an additional vaccine dose appears to boost the immune system of the general population enough to provide even better protection against Omicron.
The bottom line is that it’s even more important for people living with HIV to get fully vaccinated if they can, obtain a third dose if they’re eligible, and continue masking and social distancing behaviours as much as possible.
starting to feel somewhat better :)
Beterschap Jim, hoop dat het herstel doorzet.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.
Hi JIm,...
Glad to hear that. Are you taking anything, to help you feel better. Have you been running any temperature.
It;s been a week now,.. Hopefully you should be getting though this soon.
Take care---Ray
ojo. Hello everyone!!… my 87 years old mother, the one who has been besides me fighting hiv during 27 years, has tested positive for COVID-19. She got her moderna shots plus a buster. She was exposed to the virus a week ago, so far, so good, symptoms, just sore throat. I hope she doesn’t get worse symptoms. Anyone with a feedback?, I will appreciate it…hugs
New Mexico man returns home after more than 500 days in hospital with Covid
Must be one hell of a fighter !
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/new-mexico-man-returns-home-500-days-hospital-due-covid-rcna18898
A New Mexico man has returned home after he spent more than 500 days in the hospital battling Covid-19.
Donnell Hunter finally left Kindred Hospital Albuquerque last week, NBC affiliate KOB reported.
hope he has good insurance to cover the costs.unfortunately, here in America, he's probably passed the limit of his insurance (if he had it at all); his family has gone broke from medical bills; they're in debt; and if his family wasn't already "forced" by the hospital 400 days ago to apply for Social Security Disability, federal Medicare, and their state's Medicaid, then he's applying now for those benefits which won't be determined for three more years while he incurs even more unpaid medical debt sinking his family further into debt.
More than half of people living with HIV who acquire SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, have asymptomatic illness, according to study results presented at the Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI 2022). This suggests that people with well-controlled HIV have COVID-19 outcomes similar to those of HIV-negative people.
Last Monday I got tested positive for Covid, it is Thursday and I am still not feeling the best so my doctor prescribed me Paxlovid the anti-viral.
I am usually a bit scared of new meds and I want to know if any of you has tried it?
Genvoya. It says there is a small interaction but nothing serious.
ugh! The plague has come to chez Leatherman
because Lowes allows ignorant redneck republikkans without vaccines living in backwoods South Carolina to go without masks while hacking all over the place spreading germs, Larry got sick last weekend with covid and stayed sick all week. A week later, I finally got sick....thankfully for only about 24 hrs. although, I've been left with intermittent extreme fatigue and a little bit of brain fog. UGH!
Then my mom, who is vacationing at myrtle beach, called to tell me that although she didn't get it when her husband did two months ago, she just tested positive and was sick just like me for about 24 hrs.
Sorry to hear this, and I hope Larry is feeling better and your fatigue gets better.thanks!
thanks!
Larry had 140 sick hours accrued, so took all of last week off - with pay. woohoo. He's back to work this week and doing pretty good with just a little congestion left. I've got a little congestion still and the brain fog isn't much. the fatigue is weird. A couple of times a day, I'll be fine being active like normal and then it'll just hit me, hard enough to make me sit down and barely be able to hold my head up for 15 mins or so.
but it's all cool. It could have been so much worse....and I've been there, done that before and no thanks. ;) I'm just kind of annoyed that after so long and with so many precautions (Larry still wears a mask at work and I do when I go out... well except for planet fitness and out for mexican and margaritas twice a month), that we ended up infected. But looking at the bright side, I'm glad it happened now after a lot of vaccinations and time for the virus strains to weaken.
Glad to hear Larry is feeling betterme too.....so he could go back to work. LOL