Influenza Information
Toronto Public Health seasonal and H1N1 flu vaccine clinics are now closed. See our Vaccine Information page for the latest updates.
Every year as winter approaches, we begin to hear about influenza (the flu). This year we are hearing about a different flu season. In addition to the regular or seasonal flu, we have to protect ourselves against the new H1N1 flu (also known as swine flu) virus that has been a major story worldwide in 2009.
How will this affect people with HIV/AIDS?
As the H1N1 flu is an emerging infection, there is little information about the specific impact it has on people living with HIV/AIDS. However, we know that HIV-positive people are at an increased risk for complications from the seasonal flu, and possibly the H1N1 flu. This includes people whose immune systems have been weakened by HIV, as well as HIV-positive people with high CD4+ counts, even if they are taking anti-HIV drugs.
• In comparison to the general population, people with HIV/AIDS are not at increased risk of contracting H1N1 (CDC, 2009).
• People with HIV may be more at risk of health complications (such as pneumonia) if they become infected with H1N1. This is especially the case for those with CD4 cell counts under 200 (Project Inform, 2009).
• HIV-positive people should speak to their doctor about the Pneumovax® vaccine which protects against Pneumococcus (a common type of pneumonia bacteria) (PHAC, 2006).
• HIV-positive people should recognize H1N1 symptoms (i.e. fever, cough, fatigue, muscle aches, nasal congestion, sore throat, and possibly also nausea and vomiting) and consult their doctor. Emergency warning signs such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, sudden dizziness, and severe vomiting require immediate medical attention.
• Anti-viral drugs used to treat H1N1 (Tamiflu and Relenza) are most effective if taken within 48 hours of the onset of flu-like symptoms (PHAC, 2009).
• Those currently on HAART and/or taking opportunistic infection prophylaxis should continue to adhere to their treatment (even if sick with the flu) unless otherwise indicated by their physician (CDC, 2009).
• Individuals with HIV are recommended to be among the first groups to be immunized against H1N1. The adjuvanted H1N1 vaccine was approved for use in Canada on October 21, 2009. The H1N1 vaccine does not replace the regular seasonal flu vaccine; people with HIV/AIDS are encouraged to obtain both.
How will this affect the AIDS Committee of Toronto (ACT)?
ACT has developed a protocol to respond to the H1N1 flu pandemic, with the objective of maintaining access to our programs and services while protecting the health of our service users.
We are advising individuals with the flu to rest at home and seek appropriate medical care. As a result, the flu season is expected to have an impact on staff and volunteer attendance, which may reduce our ability to provide services at a level that you are accustomed to.
Some services may be cancelled, or may be delivered in a different way (e.g. counselling by telephone instead of on-site). If we can’t provide you with a service that you need, we will do our best to refer you to another organization that can.
This web page will be kept up-to-date with information on ACT preparations for the flu season, along with service adjustments, disruptions and cancellations.
