COVID-19 and HIV

Abstract

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the main risk factors associated with the progression to severe disease or death have been typically advanced age, diabetes mellitus, obesity, high blood pressure, heart disease, and chronic pneumopathy. Because of their immunosuppression status, persons with HIV were also expected to have a higher susceptibility to infection or a poor clinical evolution. So far, this has not been confirmed to happen, giving way to hypotheses about the role of immunosuppression or the use of antiretrovirals, which could explain this paradox. In this article we present the existing data on the epidemiology and characteristics of HIV-COVID-19 co-infection, discuss the available evidence on the possible factors involved in the evolution of individuals affected by both viruses, analyze other determinants that may negatively affect persons with HIV during the pandemic, and present recommendations for the prevention and care of COVID-19 infection in the context of HIV.

HIV and COVID-19: review of clinical course and outcomes

“…While maintaining suppressed viral load and a normal CD4 T-lymphocyte count likely decreases the risk of severe COVID-19, there is yet to be clear evidence that ART itself prevents the acquisition of SARS-CoV-2 infection or alters the rate of progression to severe disease. 51 , 144 , 195–201 Three observational studies have suggested a potential protective role of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)/emtricitabine (FTC) among PWH. 91 , 202 , 203 The last of these adjusted for comorbidities, demographics, country of birth, and education level.…”

Coinfections and Superinfections Associated with COVID-19 in Colombia: A Narrative Review

“…In addition, there are differences between the receptors through which HIV and other pathogenic coronaviruses enter target cells, the ways of assembly, and their encapsulation. In the case of HIV, it does so near the cytoplasmic membrane, and in the case of coronavirus , the process takes place in the endoplasmic reticulum, which may suggest that there is no synergistic or cooperative pathogenesis [ 53 ].…”

Adherence to antiretroviral therapy and determining factors in adults living with HIV receiving services at public health facilities amidst the COVID-19 crisis in Bahir Dar city, Northwest Ethiopia

“…Managing COVID-19 directly impacts the local HIV prevention and care landscape, which heavily relies on digital HIV intervention programs ( 5 ). Owing to their immunosuppressed state, PLHIV are presumed to be more susceptible to COVID-19 infection and may experience worse clinical outcomes ( 6 ).…”