PLWHIV - People living with HIV
Overview
- As HIV is an STI, people diagnosed with HIV are at risk of other STIs. It is important that baseline STI testing is offered to all people living with HIV (PLWHIV).
- HIV progression and transmission is increased and facilitated by STIs so an annual offer of routine screening is advised, regardless of risk history.
- Hepatitis B, hepatitis C and herpes co-infection are common among PLWHIV.
- Most STIs have a similar presentation and natural history in PLWHIV, although people with profound immunosuppression may have unusual presentations and need specialist management. Sexual transmission of hepatitis C has been reported among men who have sex with men (MSM) with HIV. For further information, see MSM guideline.
- HIV care providers should discuss sexual history, safer sex, contraception and conception plans with PLWHIV
- Current evidence suggests that all PLWHIV should start ART as soon as possible after diagnosis.
Last Updated: Thursday, 03 March 2016