New infections decrease by 88 per cent in inner city neighbourhoods once ravaged by the virus, according to new data
Australia has taken a step closer to becoming the first country to end HIV transmission after the spread of the disease was “virtually eliminated” in inner Sydney.
Between 2010 and 2022, new infections fell by 88 per cent in inner city neighbourhoods once ravaged by the virus, according to data presented at the International Aids Society’s HIV science conference on Monday.
While thousands of men died in the 1980s and 1990s in inner Sydney, an area home to a large population of gay and bisexual men, just 11 new cases were reported last year.
Researchers said the “extraordinary success” paves the way for the areas to become the first in the world to reach the UN’s target for ending transmission of HIV, and proves that existing strategies to prevent spread work extremely well when correctly implemented.