INFLUENZA-A IN AN IMMUNOCOMPROMISED PATIENT WITH HIV: A CASE REPORT

Influenza virus A is a highly contagious respiratory pathogen that has significant risks for individuals who are severely immunocompromised, especially those people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) and diabetes mellitus. These populations are at a greater chance of suffering from severe disease, prolonged illness, and complications requiring intensive monitoring. A 51- year-old female with HIV was on antiretroviral therapy since 2020 and has type-2 diabetes for 24 years, now diagnosed with Influenza A. She was presented with fever, fatigue, and intermittent dizziness and admitted to the hospital. Laboratory investigations found severe hyperglycemia (random blood glucose: 337 mg/dL), neutrophilic predominance (85.8%), and positive influenza A status. The patient was managed with oseltamivir empirically. Measures were taken to control her blood sugar while in the hospital; this had led to clinical improvement and successful discharge. The case highlights the complexities of influenza management in those who are immunocompromised, hence the need for early antiviral therapy, glycemic control, and close monitoring to prevent complications.