Superinfection

HIV Superinfection is when a person already infected with HIV gets infected with a second HIV virus from another HIV-infected person. This second virus may have drug resistance and may be more virulent. Studies suggest superinfection with a second virus may accelerate HIV progression.

HIV superinfection has been considered to be a ‘theoretical risk’ for many years. However, recent research shows that it is more than theoretical: some researchers estimate that approximately 5% of HIV-positive gay men have been ‘superinfected’ with a second strain of HIV. When a person is superinfected with a drug-resistant virus, they may become resistant also. This may explain many incidences of treatment failure.

For a summary of scientific research into Superinfection, go to:
http://hopkins-aids.edu/publications/report/may04_2.html