Abstract
Background: Dual infection with diverse HIV strains can foster the emergence of recombinants. The resulting increase in viral genetic diversity is a major challenge for vaccine development HIV treatment. In this study we aim to investigate the socio demographic factors associated with an increasing level of genetic diversity among HIV strains in a population of drug-users in Northern Thailand. Methods: From 1999 through 2000, 2231 volunteers were enrolled in the Opiate-Users Research in Chiang Mai, Thailand. HIV subtype analysis was conducted among those HIV-1 seropositive (n= 347) using a multi-region hybridization assay. Social and demographic variables were assessed using a structured questionnaire. Results: Overall, 336/347 (96.8%) of the samples could be typed. 81.8% were CRF01_AE, 3.9% were subtype B, 9.2% were recombinants (mostly between CRF01_AE and B) and 5.1% were dual infections. Dual infections were more frequent among those with a lower education level (AOR: 5.2; 95% CI 1.4-20.3), those who have initiated injecting in the last 3 years (AOR: 3.9; 95% CI 1.1-14.6), and those reporting frequent needle sharing in the last 3 months (AOR: 7.0; 95% CI 1.5-34.1). Both recombinant strains and dual infection were more frequent among those reporting frequent needle sharing in the last 3 months (AOR: 5.3; 95% CI 1.6-17.1). Conclusion: To limit the expanding complexity of HIV-1 strains, early intervention should be aimed at reduction in needle sharing, especially among new intravenous drug users.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 24-30 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Drug and alcohol dependence |
Volume | 116 |
Issue number | 1-3 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jul 1 2011 |
Keywords
- Dual infection
- HIV/AIDS
- Injecting risk
- Injection drug use
- Molecular epidemiology
- Multi-region hybridization assay
- Recombination
- Thailand
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Psychiatry and Mental health
- Pharmacology (medical)