According to the World Health Organization (WHO):
Globally, an estimated 39 million people were living with HIV in 2022.
1.3 million people were newly infected in 2022.
630,000 people died from HIV-related illnesses in 2022.
🧪 What is World AIDS Vaccine Day?
World AIDS Vaccine Day commemorates the speech made by U.S. President Bill Clinton on May 18, 1997, where he emphasized the need for a vaccine to end the AIDS epidemic. Since then, May 18 has become a day to:
Recognize the progress made in HIV vaccine research.
Raise awareness about the need for continued investment in science.
Encourage global cooperation and community participation.
💉 Why Do We Need an HIV Vaccine?
Despite advancements in antiretroviral therapy (ART) and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), HIV remains incurable. A vaccine would:
Prevent new infections, especially in high-risk populations.
Reduce long-term reliance on daily medications.
Be a game-changer in achieving the goal of an HIV-free generation.
🔍 According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and UNAIDS, an effective vaccine could:
Save millions of lives over the next few decades.
Help reduce HIV transmission in low- and middle-income countries.
Improve global health equity.
🧭 Current Status of HIV Vaccine Research
While no HIV vaccine has been approved yet, there is significant ongoing research and multiple clinical trials across the globe.
Promising Approaches:
mRNA Technology – similar to COVID-19 vaccines (Moderna is leading trials).
Broadly Neutralizing Antibodies (bNAbs) – targeting multiple strains of HIV.
DNA and viral vector-based vaccines.
Notably, the HVTN (HIV Vaccine Trials Network) and IAVI (International AIDS Vaccine Initiative) are conducting large-scale global trials.
⚠️ HIV Transmission: Know the Risks
HIV spreads through:
Unprotected sexual contact
Contaminated blood transfusions
Sharing needles or syringes
Mother-to-child transmission (during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding)
HIV is NOT spread through casual contact, hugging, kissing, sharing utensils, or mosquito bites.
✅ Prevention: Until We Have a Vaccine
While we await a vaccine, prevention is the best protection. Here’s how:
1. Use Protection
Always use condoms during sexual activity.
2. Get Tested Regularly
Knowing your and your partner’s HIV status is crucial.
3. Opt for Safe Injections
Avoid sharing needles. Use only sterilized or disposable syringes.
4. Take PrEP and PEP
5. Awareness and Education
Spread the facts, reduce stigma.
📌 Source: WHO, CDC, MoHFW India, UNAIDS
🩺 What We Do at Al Haider Healthcare
At Al Haider Healthcare, we:
Conduct HIV awareness programs in our community.
Offer confidential HIV counseling and testing services.
Promote Ayush and holistic wellness to support immunity and mental well-being.
Encourage safe health practices through patient education.
📢 Final Message
World AIDS Vaccine Day reminds us that science, solidarity, and awareness are our strongest tools against HIV. While we await the world’s first HIV vaccine, let us:
✅ Educate
✅ Prevent
✅ Support Research
✅ Fight Stigma
Together, we can end HIV/AIDS.
📚 References
Written by Dr. Afzal Ali
General Physician, Al Haider Healthcare, Sathi, Bihar, India
Visit us at www.ahchospital.in or call for appointments and health consultations.
