HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is primarily transmitted through blood, sexual fluids, and breast milk. However, scientific research has identified a specific group of people who cannot transmit HIV to others, despite being infected. These individuals are those who have an undetectable viral load due to consistent adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART).......CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE FROM THE SOURCE>>>>>
Who Are These People?
The only group of people who cannot transmit HIV are individuals who are HIV-positive but have an undetectable viral load. This means the amount of HIV in their blood is so low that it cannot be detected by standard tests. This is achieved through strict adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART), which effectively suppresses the virus.
Why Can’t They Transmit HIV?
When HIV is undetectable, the virus is present in such small quantities that it cannot be transmitted through sex, pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. This has been scientifically proven by multiple studies, leading to the widely accepted principle known as U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable).
What Does the Science Say?
1. The PARTNER Study (2016, 2019)
Followed serodiscordant couples (one partner HIV-positive, the other HIV-negative).
After thousands of acts of unprotected sex, zero cases of HIV transmission were reported when the HIV-positive partner had an undetectable viral load.
2. The HPTN 052 Study (2011)
Found that early ART use reduced HIV transmission by 96% among heterosexual couples.
Showed that people with suppressed HIV levels could not transmit the virus.
Does This Apply to All Forms of Transmission?
Sexual Transmission: Completely prevented when the viral load is undetectable.
Mother-to-Child Transmission: If a pregnant woman with HIV is on ART and maintains an undetectable viral load, the risk of passing the virus to her baby is almost zero.
Blood Transmission (e.g., Sharing Needles): While ART reduces the risk, it is still advised to avoid sharing needles as a safety measure.
How Can Someone Become Undetectable?
Consistently taking ART medication without missing doses.
Regular viral load testing to ensure the virus remains suppressed.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support the immune system.
Conclusion
People living with HIV who achieve and maintain an undetectable viral load through ART cannot transmit the virus to others. This discovery has changed how the world views HIV, reducing stigma and improving the quality of life for those living with the virus. U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable) is a game-changer in the fight against HIV/AIDS, offering hope and empowerment to millions of people worldwide. The…..CONTINUE READING THE FULL ARTICLE
