2023-11-29 12:30:25
The Department of Disease Control recommends that people infected with HIV continue taking antiretroviral drugs in order to suppress the virus and avoid the risk of opportunistic infectious diseases and severe symptoms if infected with smallpox.
According to Dr. Thongchai Keerati Hatthayakorn, Acting Director-General of the Department of Disease Control, there are approximately 500,000 people in Thailand who know their HIV infection status. Of these, about 457,000 people (90 percent) have received antiretroviral treatment, and approximately 445,000 people (97 percent) have successfully suppressed their viral load. However, many people infected with HIV, both those who know their status and those who do not, have not sought treatment or have not continued with their treatment, leading to an increased risk of opportunistic infectious diseases and severe symptoms if infected with smallpox.
Dr. Thongchai emphasized that antiretroviral drugs are essential for controlling HIV, as they have few side effects and are easy to take. When taken consistently and regularly, the drugs can reduce the virus to undetectable levels in the blood and prevent transmission to others. However, if a person stops taking their medication, the number of HIV infections may increase, immunity may decrease, and there is a heightened risk of severe symptoms if exposed to various germs, particularly smallpox.
Therefore, the Department of Disease Control advises people living with HIV to continue taking their antiretroviral medication and not to stop on their own. It is also important to avoid being misled by advertisements claiming that dietary supplements can cure HIV infection, as there is still no medical evidence to support such claims. Individuals diagnosed with HIV but not yet receiving antiretroviral treatment are urged to seek treatment immediately, as it is available for free with all treatment rights.
Additionally, it is recommended to use condoms consistently during sexual activity and to avoid close skin-to-skin contact with individuals who have rashes, bumps, or pus. It is also crucial to refrain from sharing personal items with others in order to prevent infection with smallpox.
By following these recommendations, individuals living with HIV can effectively suppress the virus and maintain their overall health and well-being.]
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