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Ask the Experts about Opportunistic Infections

 

exposure to tb
Mar 12, 2002

Hi Dr.

Are people who are HIV more likely to be exposed to TB or is anyone susceptible (such as those with Asthma or smokers). If you have HIV will you most likely also have active tb or can it be nonactive for a long time?

Response from Dr. Feinberg

It works in both directions: people with TB are more likely to get infected with HIV, and people with HIV are more likely to get infected with TB. This is because both germs alter immune system function, making you more vulnerable to the other disease. Also, many people at risk for one infection live in proximity to those with the other infection, making contact more likely. If you are HIV+, you are more likely to get active TB than the inactive disease.



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