Question

if an hiv positive individual has followed treatment exactly as recommended becomes ill with flu - like symptoms and seems to be getting worse instead of better, what is the most likely situation?
a. the flu just takes longer to run its course in an hiv patient and will go away eventually.
b. the individual’s cd4 + count should be tested right away because an opportunistic infection in a person with hiv is a sign that the infection may have developed into aids.
c. the person probably has a very short life expectancy because the infection has completely taken over.
d. none of the above
please select the best answer from the choices provided.
○ a
○ b
○ c
○ d

Explanation:

• Option A: HIV patients have weakened immunity, so flu - like symptoms worsening isn't just a longer flu course. So A is wrong.
• Option B: When an HIV - positive person has an opportunistic infection and symptoms worsen, testing CD4+ count is crucial as it may indicate progression to AIDS (since AIDS is defined by low CD4+ and opportunistic infections). This matches the situation.
• Option C: Saying life expectancy is very short is too extreme, especially with proper treatment. So C is wrong.
• Option D: Since B is correct, D is wrong.

Answer:

B. The individual’s CD4+ count should be tested right away because an opportunistic infection in a person with HIV is a sign that the infection may have developed into AIDS.