COVID-19 Is Airborne AIDS: Provocative Oversimplification, Emerging Science, or Something in Between?

Immune dysfunction and systemic effects in HIV and SARS-CoV-2 infections are distinct but share relevant similarities and downstream consequences. The authors compare and contrast observations of the immunological impacts of COVID-19 and HIV infections. By examining shared and distinct mechanisms, such as immune dysfunction, vulnerability to opportunistic infections, accelerated aging, and neurocognitive disorders, the authors highlight critical parallels and their implications. The authors review the extensive scientific evidence showing that SARS-CoV-2 infections result in immune cell depletion, dysfunction, and exhaustion, with impacts on several immune system cell types. Higher rates of individual susceptibility to infections lead to population-wide increases in diverse infectious diseases, including those that are signatures of immunodeficiency. Finally, the authors characterize societal responses to both pandemics, providing insights into public health strategies and lessons for improving current and future research, treatment, preparedness, and mitigation efforts.