Though Hispanic youth with perinatally acquired HIV (PHIV) comprise 14% of those living with PHIV, little research has documented their lived experiences. Eighteen Hispanic adolescents and young adults (AYA) with PHIV were recruited from two pediatric infectious disease clinics in California (mean age = 20.8 years, 12 females and 6 males). Interview transcripts were analyzed for emergent themes regarding relationships, childbearing intentions, and future career aspirations. Participants acknowledged HIV as cause for rejection and fear of transmission from partners. Most desired children in the future. Those with children (n = 7) expressed a strong desire to continue their education for the benefit of their children. Many did not view HIV as a barrier to their career aspirations. HIV influenced their daily lives. However, the challenges of poverty, loss, and trauma also significantly shaped their well-being. Health care providers offered emotional and instrumental support which helped AYA make progress towards their goals.
COVID-19 vaccine research in immune-deficient/disordered people (IDP) has primarily focused on cancer and organ transplantation populations. We followed 195 IDP with varied immune disorders and 35 healthy volunteers (HV) from April 2021-April 2022. Anti-spike IgG and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 pseudo-neutralization were measured though six months post-dose 3. Anti-spike IgG was detected in 93% of IDP by six months post-dose 3. IgG dynamics in IDP and HV were similar, though median IgG levels for IDP were <33% of HV at all timepoints. IgG concentrations were lower against Omicron BA.1 than other variants at all timepoints. Pseudo-neutralization capacity was modestly correlated with anti-spike IgG concentration, but was especially low for Omicron BA.1. Post-vaccination adverse events were minimal. Results were largely unaffected by participants’ immunomodulatory medication and treatments. COVID-19 vaccines are safe, induce anti-spike IgG in most IDP, and should be more strongly recommended for people with immunodeficiencies.
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