Safe sex is best way to stop HIV

The history of HIV and the AIDS epidemic began in confusion, followed by illness, fear and death as the world faced an unknown virus. By 1999, AIDS was the fourth biggest cause of death worldwide and number one killer in Africa.

Scientific advances, such as the development of antiretroviral drugs, have enabled people to live long and healthy lives with HIV. Now a new treatment that is highly effective at preventing HIV in people at substantial risk is likely to become available in Ireland. Hiqa’s draft PrEP technology assessment is urging the Government to proceed with a publicly funded programme that will save lives.