Coinfection means a person has 2 or more infections at the same time. Because you can get both the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C in some of the same ways, there are many people who are infected with both HIV and hepatitis C. These illnesses are very different, so it is important that you learn about both of them. HIV is the virus that causes AIDS. It is spread mainly through the blood and through sexual contact. You can have HIV and feel healthy. Over many years, however, the virus can wear down your body's immune system, making it hard for your body to fight off dangerous infections. Having HIV also can increase your risk of getting certain cancers. HIV affects your whole immune system, including your body's ability to fight off hepatitis C. As a result, you might develop a worse case of hepatitis C than someone who doesn't have HIV. You can read more in the section on Hepatitis C and HIV Coinfection. | 
