Information varies on this subject so, as with all aspects of life with an HIV+ child, it is best to talk with your local pediatric infectious disease specialist. That being said, because people with HIV/AIDS are more susceptible to viral and bacterial infections, it's important to always use good hygiene to reduce the chance of getting sick. Talk with your family members and friends about preventing the spread of cold viruses by covering their mouths when they cough, washing their hands frequently, and avoiding rubbing their eyes after touching surfaces.

Also, regularly use an antibacterial cleaner or a mild bleach solution to kill germs on common household hotspots such as the computer mouse and keyboard, telephone receivers, doorknobs, kitchen and bathroom countertops and sinks, and the refrigerator handle.

Check with your doctor about a flu shot for all family members to avoid spreading illnesses amongst each other. The CDC recommends that people with chronic medical conditions, including HIV/AIDS and those with weakened immune systems, be among the first to get a flu vaccine each year.

Flu season can begin as early as October and last as late as May. October or November is the best time to be vaccinated, but you can still get vaccinated in December and later. The flu shot becomes effective about two weeks after your vaccination. You may only need the pneumonia vaccine once.

In addition, avoid crowds during cold and flu season since colds and flu can cause serious problems for people with HIV/AIDS or compromised immune systems. Keep your immune system healthy by getting plenty of sleep, eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding stress. Also, pay attention to healthy lifestyle habits by avoiding cigarette smoke and air pollutants.  _{[http://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/cold-guide/hiv-aids-colds]}

NOTE: People with HIV (or other immune suppression) should not get the live virus flu vaccine sold as FluMist.

However, according to Dr. Joel Gallant, "People with HIV infection get the same colds and flus that everyone else does, with the same frequency and the same severity. Viral respiratory infections are controlled by the humoral (antibody-mediated) immune system, while HIV destroys the cellular immune system."

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