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HIV in Children: Care Instructions

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the immune system, the body's natural defense system. Without a strong immune system, the body has trouble fighting off disease.

HIV often causes flu-like symptoms in children soon after they get infected. They might have yeast infections of the mouth. They may also have repeated bacterial infections and swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, and groin.

Your doctor can prescribe antiretroviral medicines that can slow or stop the damage to your child's immune system. Most of the time, the medicines can prevent AIDS, which is the most severe stage of HIV infection. Treatment can help your child live a long, healthy life.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

How can you care for your child at home?

Give your child their medicine exactly as directed. Try not to miss any doses. The medicine may not work if you miss doses. Talk to your doctor if you have problems with the schedule. Your doctor wants to help.
Make taking their medicine a part of your child's daily routine. For example, have your child take the medicine with breakfast or before brushing teeth. You can also put the week's pills in a pillbox, post reminders on calendars, or use sticky notes. Try sending your child reminders as text messages. Or set smartphone alerts.
Talk with your doctor if your child has trouble with the medicine. The doctor may be able to prescribe a medicine in a form that is easier to take.
Make sure that your child eats healthy foods, gets plenty of exercise, and has all recommended vaccines on schedule.
Join a support group. These groups can be a good place to share information, tips, and feelings.

When should you call for help?

Call 911anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:

Your child passed out (lost consciousness).
Your child has severe shortness of breath.

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

Your child has signs of a new or worse problem from HIV, such as:
- Problems from the medicine.
- A fever.
- Coughing.
- Diarrhea.
- Skin changes, such as sores or rashes.
- Bleeding.
- Night sweats.
- Confusion or not thinking clearly.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

Your child has missed doses of their antiretroviral medicine or other medicines to prevent infections. Your doctor can offer ideas or help for your child's treatment.

These resources and their content are provided by a third party for informational purposes and do not necessarily reflect the values and positions of Ascension, its ministries, or its subsidiaries.

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