Positive news on World Aids Day

By Specialist Physician, Dr Jade Mogambery

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has become one of the most treatable chronic infections worldwide. The medication available is not only convenient but have very few side effects. These drugs are available in the public and private sector.

How do I take the leap?
• Get an HIV test. If you feel that your risk is high, test more frequently.
• A positive result is not a death sentence. Seek support and speak to your doctor about starting treatment. The earlier you start, the better for your health.
• Once you start antiretroviral therapy (ART), you may not stop without instructions from your doctor.
• If you develop side effects, see your doctor immediately so that your treatment can be adjusted.
• Your CD4 count should be above 500 cells/uL and should be increasing every month. This generally means that your immune system is working adequately.
• A drop in CD4 count may signal a new infection or another serious disease. Your viral load should be undetectable after six months of regular ART use. If not, see your doctor immediately.

If HIV is so easy to treat, why should I protect myself against it?

HIV has profound and serious effects on the body. Long term, the infected individual has an increased risk of diabetes, kidney, and heart disease. For this reason, we must try to curb the spread of HIV.

South Africa is one of the major hubs of HIV research and cutting-edge technology. However, the available technology is only useful when it is applied.

Every individual can make a difference in curbing the spread of HIV in South Africa. Let us commit to knowing our HIV status and taking charge of our health and the health of those we love.