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Real members of myHIVteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A myHIVteam Member asked a question 💭
New Brunswick, NJ

So we all know that blood tests for hiv viral loads are becoming more sensitive that now they can’t measure under 20.next year they will probably come out with a blood test that can’t measure under 10. So in the grand scheme of things does it really make a difference if your under 200 which is the cdc criteria for undetectable or is under 20 the best case scenario.my viral load started at undetectable,then went to 40 then last test is 30.my ID doctor says those numbers of mine are insignificant… read more

August 26, 2024
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Answer Summary

Members reassured someone worried about viral load fluctuations between 20 and 40, with the overwhelming consensus being that under 200 is... Read more

Members reassured someone worried about viral load fluctuations between 20 and 40, with the overwhelming consensus being that under 200 is undetectable and that chasing small number changes creates unnecessary stress when treatment is clearly working. Several members shared decades of experience staying undetectable, practical advice on monitoring CD4 counts alongside viral load, and the importance of overall health habits like sleep, nutrition, exercise, and stress management rather than fixating on minor lab variations. A recurring theme was compassionate support for the member grieving their mother's sudden death, with multiple members sharing their own bereavement experiences and encouraging connection to therapy or support groups to process grief before it impacts physical and mental health.

A myHIVteam Member

Wow Brad I didn't realize your mom passed away. I'm so so sorry to hear about that my friend. Words could not express such sorrow. Please take your time 🙏❤️🙏

August 26, 2024
A myHIVteam Member

Indeed, and it is particularly important I think that we ourselves understand this as, strangely, we are often the teachers explaining HIV, even here in 2025.

September 3, 2025
A myHIVteam Member

I used to live off the numbers when I was first diagnosed and when I went undetectable. Many years later…16 undetectable years I no longer worry about those numbers, I live for today for ME! Try and eat right…ok better, get ole ty of sleep, no long nights, well unless there a spooky series on Netflix. I have a positive attitude and keep drama and stress away. It’s worked well. I pray every morning and evening, I’m grateful for the little things in life, especially when you hit every green light going through Downtown. I don’t to the casino

August 26, 2024
A myHIVteam Member

Hi Brad, Just FYI, to be consider undetectable you must be in the range of 200 copies/ml. Everything below that it's acceptable, I have been undetectable for the Last 15 years, and fortunatelly alway under 50 copies/ml.
So if you are ranging between 20 and 40, means you have adherence to the treatment and can be relaxed about it, also Takei CD4 count into account those are the cells that Will keep you strong to fight any oportunist infections...
Take vitamins and anything that makes your inmune system strong, eat well. Sleep well and try to excercise, walking is a good start
Wish you the best....

August 26, 2024 (edited)
A myHIVteam Member

I agree with under 200 as undetectable - I wouldn't chase numbers. Your overall health is more important.

August 26, 2024

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