Which of the following is a common opportunistic infection associated with AIDS?

The correct answer is tuberculosis because it is a well-documented opportunistic infection that significantly affects individuals with AIDS. As a result of the immunocompromised state caused by HIV, patients are at a higher risk for infections that a healthy immune system would ordinarily fend off. Tuberculosis is particularly concerning because it can be serious and even life-threatening in those with a weakened immune system. The interaction between HIV and Mycobacterium tuberculosis creates complications that can exacerbate each illness.

Other infections like flu, pneumonia, and strep throat can occur in immunocompromised individuals, but they are not as strongly associated with AIDS as tuberculosis. While pneumonia can be considered an opportunistic infection, especially when caused by organisms like Pneumocystis jirovecii in AIDS patients, it doesn’t have the same level of prevalence and direct association as tuberculosis. In summary, tuberculosis stands out as a particularly critical opportunistic infection linked to the advanced stages of HIV/AIDS due to its prevalence and severity in those affected.