Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2005. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.



Question:

Does it matter what the stage of HIV is within the person you contracted it from? If they are in the later stages will mine be worse from the start, or is mine at the beginning and needs to progress on its own?

Answer provided by:

John Barrow, M.D.

I'm sorry you're dealing with a new HIV infection. I presume you have had lab tests to prove it, and you're not just worrying over a single contact.

In general, the condition of the person from whom you got HIV should have NO bearing on your own condition. If the patient was a late stage patient, it should have no impact on your health.

There are increasing numbers of cases of people with recent infections that have viruses with some evidence of resistance to drugs. I would discuss this with your doctor. Many people think that all new patients should be tested for resistant virus, in order to get the best possible result from therapy.

Good luck, and please feel free to write with any other questions. Things are going to be fine for you. Be patient, take charge of your health, and live well.

And, don't give up on safer sex! Don't let this happen to someone else, or their other contacts.


050228
ASKD050222


AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Elton John AIDS Foundation, the National Library of Medicine, Pacific Life Foundation and donations from users like you.

Always watch for outdated information. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.

AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.

Copyright ©1980,2011. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content.