Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 10, 2025

New Tools to Expand Regulatory T Cells from HIV-1-infected Individuals
Published on: May 30, 2013
COVID-19 Incidence and Factors Influencing Infection Risk Among People Living With HIV in Türkiye: Is Current Issue
Asuman Inan1, Orcun Barkay2, Arda Karapınar3
1Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Haydarpasa Numune Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Türkiye.
Abstract:
Introduction: As the Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic intersects with the ongoing Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) crisis, concerns have emerged regarding the susceptibility of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH) to severe outcomes from COVID-19. Despite global efforts to understand the interplay between HIV/AIDS and COVID-19, research on this issue remains limited in Türkiye. This study investigates the incidence of COVID-19 among PLWH in Türkiye and factors influencing infection risk. Materials and Methods: An online survey, conducted from April to June 2023, assessed COVID-19 frequency and risk factors among PLWH aged 18 years and older in Türkiye. Demographic data such as age, gender, educational background, underlying health conditions, vaccination status, and COVID-19 infection history were collected from individuals who voluntarily participated. Results: A total of 354 PLWH from 38 cities in Türkiye participated in the study. The median age was 35.8 (range 18-76); 78% were male and 65.5% were university graduates. The rate of experienced COVID-19 among PLWH was 44.6%. Logistic regression analysis revealed that vaccinated individuals had an 84% lower risk of contracting COVID-19 among PLWH. In sum, 80 participants were not vaccinated in this study; of them, 27.5% identified as vaccine opponents and 25% expressed vaccine hesitancy. Discussion: These findings suggest that vaccination status is the key determinant of COVID-19 susceptibility among young and well-educated PLWH in Türkiye. The notable level of vaccine hesitancy and opposition of PLWH highlights the need for public health initiatives aimed at addressing misinformation and enhancing vaccine confidence. Conclusion: This study underscores the urgent need to address vaccine hesitancy and vaccine opposition among educated PLWH in Türkiye. Amid evolving SARS-CoV-2 variants, vaccination remains paramount in mitigating COVID-19 risks among PLWH. Further research should delve deeper into demographic-specific vaccine concerns to optimize public health strategies and meet the unique needs of PLWH communities.
Related Concept Videos
Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin...
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Vaccinations
Pulmonary Tuberculosis I
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...
Prevalence and Incidence
Prevalence indicates the proportion of individuals in a population who have a specific disease or health...
Bias in Epidemiological Studies

