Hiv history in South Africa

In South Africa, the first case of HIV infection was reported in 1982 and this heralded the start of the first wave of the HIV epidemic, which was limited to the gay community, blood transfusion recipients and haemophiliacs. The spread of HIV in South Africa is best described as explosive because of the rapid rise in HIV prevalence. National HIV prevalence rates, based on annual anonymous antenatal surveys, rose from 0.76% in 1990 to 10.44% in 1995 and 22.4% in 2000. In 1990, Chris Hani, chief of the ANC guerilla force (known as ‘Spear of the Nation‘) said, we cannot afford to allow the AIDS epidemic to ruin the realization of our dreams. Unattended, however, this will result in untold damage and suffering by the end of the century. Unfortunately, Chris Hani was tragically assassinated shortly before democracy was achieved, very sad, isn’t it?.

Who was the first HIV patient in South Africa?

In South Africa, it was recorded that the first case of HIV was in a white, homosexual air steward from the USA who died of pneumonia (PCP) in 1982. Also, blood specimens showed a 16 percent infection rate among tested gay men in Johannesburg in 1983.

How did HIV arrive in South Africa?

In 1982, the first case of AIDS in South Africa was reported in a homosexual man who contracted the virus while in California, United States. Later that year, over 250 random blood samples were taken from homosexual men living in Johannesburg, of which a startling 12.8% were infected with the virus.

Can HIV be cured in South Africa?

No, there is no complete cure yet. Although, a person living with HIV can suppress the virus with antiretrovirals.

How can HIV be cured permanently in South Africa?

HIV treatment reduces the amount of HIV in your body and helps you stay healthy. However, there is no cure for HIV, but you can control it with HIV treatment. Most people can get the virus under control within six months. Also, HIV treatment does not prevent transmission of other sexually transmitted diseases.

What happens if you take ARVs while negative?

Bear in mind that when a HIV-positive person is given ARVs, it boosts their immunity, but when a HIV-negative person takes them, it just undermines their immunity and interferes with their body organs, this could result in a very drastic situation.

What if I delay HIV treatment?

If you delay treatment, HIV will continue to harm your immune system. Delaying treatment will put you at higher risk for transmitting HIV to your partners, getting sick, and developing AIDS.

What are the different types of HIV treatment in South Africa?

There are two types of HIV treatment: “pills” and “shots”.

• “Pills” are recommended for people who are just starting HIV treatment. There are many FDA-approved single pill and combination medicines available.
• People who have had an undetectable viral load (or have been virally suppressed) for at least three months may consider “shots”.

How much does ARV treatment cost in South Africa?

According to valuable reports, the average price is R86. 54 (US$6.26) per person per month. Of the eight versions of the new three-drug combination available in the private sector in South Africa, the cheapest is priced at R616 per month.

Is HIV medication free in South Africa?

Government continues to implement programmes that promote various HIV and AIDS prevention measures, such as: antiretroviral treatment which is free to anyone who tests positive, no matter what their CD4 count is.