HIV/AIDS

Clinical Description

People infected with HIV may develop HIV-related illnesses, the most common of which are

TB and cryptococcal meningitis. PLWHIV may develop diabetes and hypertension as well as depression, which affect adherence and retention and must be screened and referred to appropriate clinics

Treatment

ART for all HIV infected people is the most effective HIV prevention and Treatment method available: Successful ART leads to very low levels of virus in the blood and in body fluids (viral suppression). Viral suppression greatly reduces the risk of sexual or mother-to-child transmission.

• All HIV infected people should start ART as soon as possible for their own health and to prevent on ward transmission of the virus.
• Rapid ART initiation should be offered on the same day to people who are ready to start.

For more details, refer to the following MoH guidelines:

• 2021 Clinical Management of HIV in Children and Adults (5th edition, 2021)
• 2021 Malawi Integrated HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Syphilis Testing Services

Guidelines

• Clinical Guidance for Hepatitis B and C Provision in Malawi (1st edition, 2021)
• National Tuberculosis Control Program Manual (8th edition, 2018)

CARE AND SUPPORT

General supportive care:

• Proper nutrition is important.

Psychological support:

• Inform patients of any HIV support groups in their community.
• Refer adolescents living with HIV to teen clubs in their area
• Link patients identified with mental health disorders, particularly depression to mental health clinics for continued care