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Germ Warfare - How to avoid Opportunistic Infections

For persons living with HIV or AIDS, avoiding germs (bugs, pathogens, microbes) is a number one concern next to taking medications. When the immune system has been compromised by a low CD4 or helper cell count, the body is particularly susceptible to infections. Here are some simple steps that can be taken to help avoid getting sick.

PETS

Pets can carry certain microbes that cause diarrhea and other problems in PWLA. Here are some very important tips to follow when considering adoption and care of a pet.

Avoid animals less than six months old. Their immune systems are fragile, and this opens them up to infections. Avoid stray animals. Stray animals may already have contracted an infection or they may not have been vaccinated against infection.

Cats: Cats can be particularly troublesome because they can not only be the source of microbes that can cause diarrhea, but they can also be the source of toxoplasma gondii which causes toxoplasmosis. If planning to adopt, adopt a cat over a year old and in good health.

Avoid cleaning the cat litter box. If you must clean the cat box, wash your hands thoroughly afterward. Some people prefer wearing a surgical mask when cleaning for added protection.

Cats should be kept indoors, not allowed to hunt or eat raw or undercooked meat.

FOOD

The two most common microbes that can come from food are Salmonella and Cryptosporidium.

Avoid raw or undercooked eggs, including those foods that may have a raw egg in the mixture such as certain sauces or dressings. Avoid raw or undercooked meats including seafood, chicken, and red meat. Fruits and vegetables need to be washed thoroughly. Remember to wash all cutting boards, utensils and hands after handling raw meats.

TRAVEL

Avoid drinking water from lakes, rivers and ponds, as it can be loaded with a variety of bacteria. Sometimes community water supplies can become contaminated as well. Drink bottled water, or boil water for one minute if there is a contamination warning for the community. Drinking bottle water or use of a proper filtration system is a good idea at any time.

Last but not least, are a few common sense tips to help you stay healthy.

Hand washing: there can never be too much of it! Hand sanitizer: great for carry8ing in the car, in your back pack or purse. Masks: use when you are going to the doctor’s office to avoid catching what other patients have. Avoid large gatherings such as the Saturday morning rush at the supermarket. Try to go to the market when you know it won’t be crowded. Pay attention to where you put your hands. Elevator buttons, escalator or stair railings. tables and chars, playground equipment, door handles...these are all loaded with germs! A good time to use that hand sanitizer!