Herpes and HIV
How do I control my herpes and HIV infection? Do I need an HIV test?
Most people with recurrent genital herpes infection in Australia do not have human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Some doctors believe that active genital herpes infection may increase the chance of acquiring HIV infection, although there is no concrete evidence to support this claim.
However, herpes may recur in a person who also has HIV infection because of lowered immunity. Some people who have genital herpes know they have HIV infection, and may want to talk to their doctor about the use of antiviral medications to prevent recurrences.
If you have herpes and think you may have been exposed to HIV infection, you may wish to talk to your doctor about the possibility of having an HIV test.
HIV is most commonly acquired by anal or vaginal sex without a condom or by reusing needles contaminated with HIV. Although testing for HIV may cause concern, new treatments are dramatically improving the outlook for people with HIV.
Treating HIV infection as well as herpes often helps the body to control episodes of genital herpes in people with HIV infection. Also, reducing the number of episodes of herpes places less strain on the immune system.
Herpes antiviral treatment and HIV
Many doctors use suppressive treatment for herpes in HIV infected people because recurrences are common and the fewer the episodes, the less stress placed on the immune system.
To obtain further information about genital herpes, see your doctor.
Last Reviewed: 09 November 2001
