The severity of COVID-19 across the spectrum of HIV

Abstract

Purpose of review 

We review the intersection between the HIV and COVID-19 pandemics, particularly the impact of HIV infection on the development of severe COVID-19.

Recent findings 

Studies early in the COVID-19 pandemic did not find a clear link between HIV infection and increased COVID-19 severity or mortality. People with HIV (PWH) were more likely to have severe COVID-19, but much of the risk for worse outcomes was related to high rates of comorbidities and social determinants of health. Although comorbidities and social determinants of health are certainly critically important reasons for severe COVID-19 among PWH, recent large studies have found HIV infection – particularly when the CD4 cell count is low or HIV RNA is not suppressed – is an independent risk factor for COVID-19 severity. The link between HIV and severe COVID-19 highlights the need to diagnose and treat HIV as well as the importance of COVID-19 vaccination and treatment among PWH.

Summary 

People with HIV have faced increased challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic because of high rates of comorbidities and social determinants of health as well as the impact of HIV on COVID-19 severity. Information on the intersection of the two pandemics has been crucial to improving care for people with HIV.