HIV in NSW in 2010: sustaining success in an evolving epidemic

Abstract

NSW has been recognised internationally for achieving a sustained, stable rate of HIV infection since 2000. An early mobilisation by communities initially at risk of HIV--gay men, sex workers and injecting drug users--resulted in rapid behaviour change and provided the basis for a continuing cooperative partnership with government, health service providers and researchers. This special issue of the NSW Public Health Bulletin describes the current response to HIV in NSW. Experts from diverse disciplinary and professional fields offer perspectives on the epidemiology, morbidity and impacts of HIV, current prevention challenges including with Aboriginal communities and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, models for the diagnosis, care and treatment of HIV, and the legislative protection of public health and those who are living with HIV. The NSW experience demonstrates that the sustained cooperation of those affected, together with the efforts of government, health service providers and researchers, can achieve HIV control.