HIV VACCINE GOOD NEWS BUT STILL NO CURE

“In the last month we have seen two major steps forward towards a vaccine to protect against HIV” announced Andrew Burry, general manager of the AIDS Action Council, today.

The results of the RV 144 vaccine trial in Thailand, comes on top of the earlier announcement of the discovery of new antibodies by researchers in the US.

“These results give renewed hope that the world will be one day able to eradicate HIV, but that reality is a long way off,” said Mr Burry. “A vaccine combination that prevents up to 30% of infections, as this most recent study suggests, is still a long way from the most effective prevention method we have: condoms.”

“Even with a perfect vaccine, we must not forget about the 33 million people already living with HIV worldwide. Even today only 3 million people have access to antiretroviral treatments that work and make a huge difference in the lives of people living with HIV.”

“While 30 million people are denied treatments, the world’s ability to roll out vaccines or a cure seem remote.”

The AIDS Action Council is an ACT-based community organisation working to eliminate further transmission of HIV and minimising the personal and social impacts of HIV and AIDS.

For more information contact:
Andrew Burry
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