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Ask the Experts about Opportunistic Infections

 

Vaccination against other diseases
Apr 24, 2001

When I found out I'm HIV+, my CD4 cells were already down to 390. I've since started on a cocktail three weeks ago. My question is: are there any specific diseases I need to be immunized against (e.g. MMR, tetanus, pneumococcal pneumonia, etc.) considering some of my CD4's have been deleted by the virus? Thanks so much for your time. Your website is a godsend!

Response from Dr. Feinberg

There are certain vaccinations that should be routinely given to HIV+ people: 1) Pneumovax to prevent pneumococcal pneumonia, 2) Hepatitis B if you're not already immune to it, and 3) Hepatitis A, if you're not immune to it and already have hepatitis B and/or C. Everyone should have a tetanus booster every 7-10 years. Adults do not need MMR.



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