HIV Treatment

There is no cure for HIV but there is great treatment available. People with HIV can live a normal lifespan.

The treatment is called HAART (Highly Active Anti-Retroviral Therapy), which is a combination of medicines that aim to stop the virus replicating in the body and allow the immune system to recover.  It is really important to adhere to the treatment schedule as the HIV can become resistant to the medication if it is not taken properly.  As with all medication, HAART has side effects, some which can be severe.  You can still pass on HIV while on treatment.

If you are HIV positive you may be required to attend the hospital every 3 months for a check up.  During this appointment you will have a blood test to monitor your CD4 count, (the number of CD4 cells in your blood), and your Viral Load, (the amount of HIV in your blood).