2 Virology, HIV and viral load

2.10 Impact of coinfections on viral load

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Other infections can have an impact on HIV viral load.

• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like herpes, gonorrhoea and syphilis increase the levels of HIV in semen and vaginal fluids. Higher viral load makes HIV more infectious. This is why other STIs are a risk factor for HIV transmission.
• Viral infections like the flu can increase your viral load while the infection is active. If you get a high viral load result when you have flu or a cold, you should retest when you feel better.
• Malaria can increase your viral load while the infection is active.
• Some vaccinations may also increase viral load temporarily.