(a)Infectious disease General In cases of infectious disease, consideration should be given to a history of, or clinical signs indicating, underlying impairment of the immune system.
(b)Tuberculosis
(1)Applicants with active tuberculosis should be assessed as unfit. A fit assessment may be considered following completion of therapy.
(2)Applicants with quiescent or healed lesions may be assessed as fit. Specialist evaluation should consider the extent of the disease, the treatment required and possible side effects of medication.
(c)Syphilis Applicants with acute syphilis should be assessed as unfit. A fit assessment may be considered in the case of those fully treated and recovered from the primary and secondary stages.
(d)HIV positivity
(1)Applicants who are HIV positive may be assessed as fit with an OML if a full investigation provides no evidence of HIV associated diseases that might give rise to incapacitating symptoms. Frequent review of the immunological status and neurological evaluation by an appropriate specialist should be carried out. A cardiological evaluation may also be required, depending on the medication.
(2)Applicants with signs or symptoms of an AIDS-defining condition should be assessed as unfit.
(e)Infectious hepatitis Applicants with infectious hepatitis should be assessed as unfit. A fit assessment may be considered once the applicant has become asymptomatic. Regular review of the liver function should be carried out.