Spread Of HIV Research Articles

Identification of a Novel HIV-1 Second-Generation Circulating Recombinant Form (CRF117_0107) in China.

Under the background of the main epidemic HIV strains (CRF01_AE and CRF07_BC) co-circulation in China, more HIV second-generation recombinant (SGR) strains with CRF01_AE and CRF07_BC as the backbone were also emerging. In this study, we characterize a novel HIV-1 second-generation circulating recombinant form (CRF117_0107) consisting of CRF01_AE and CRF07_BC fragments from three epidemiologically unrelated HIV-1-infected individuals. One near full-length genome (NFLG) sequence was amplified, sequenced, and spliced in two halves using RNA extracted from the plasma of a homosexual in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province. Two other NFLG sequences were obtained from the Los Alamos HIV Sequence Database under accession numbers KY201177 and MK397789, which were isolated from men who have sex with men (MSM) in Guangdong Province and Zhejiang Province, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that these NFLG sequences formed a monophyletic cluster with a high bootstrap value of 1.0. Recombination analysis demonstrated that the genome of CRF117_0107 was separated into three segments by two breakpoints. Further subregional phylogenetic analysis was performed that showed segment I+III (790-5990nt, 8295-9412nt) of CRF117_0107 originated from the CRF07_BC cluster, and Segment I+III (5991-8294nt) originated from the CRF01_AE cluster. The appearance of CRF117_0107 further highlights that HIV-1 SGR strains containing CRF01_AE and CRF07_BC will be generated more frequently and will most likely be more conducive to accelerating the spread of HIV in China. This study suggested it's essential to monitor HIV-1 second-generation CRFs among high-risk populations such as MSM for the epidemic and evolution dynamics of HIV-1 in China.

A qualitative study exploring the feasibility and acceptability of embedding an overdose prevention sites in a U.S. hospital.

Community-based overdose prevention sites (OPS) are recognized for reducing overdose deaths and the spread of HIV and hepatitis C among people who use drugs (PWUD). While some hospitals in Europe and Canada have successfully integrated OPS into their facilities, such integration remains illegal in the United States. This study explores the feasibility and acceptability of implementing an OPS at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP), situated in an urban area with high rates of overdose. Using semi-structured interviews, we engaged 28 stakeholders, including clinicians, hospital leadership, security personnel, and PWUD. The study presented participants with a hypothetical scenario depicting a PWUD hospitalized multiple times for injection-related endocarditis to elicit nuanced responses. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data revealed a complex landscape of perceived benefits and challenges associated with embedding an OPS at HUP. Stakeholders acknowledged potential advantages, such as harm reduction, including patient and community safety, education, and stigma reduction. However, concerns were raised regarding acceptability among PWUD, hospital staff, leadership, and the broader Philadelphia community. Hesitancy stemmed from uncertainties about trust-building, safety protocols, clinician stigma, and institutional support. Feasibility concerns, including patient eligibility criteria, drug policy, staffing, and suitable location, were also highlighted. Despite political and cultural barriers, participants proposed strategies to garner support for a hospital-based OPS, emphasizing clinical education, anti-stigma training, and community engagement. They discussed a vision for an OPS at HUP that could serve as a haven for PWUD during hospitalization, potentially reducing patient-directed discharges and improving adherence to medical treatments, thus decreasing morbidity and readmissions. This study underscores the need to address multifaceted concerns before implementing OPS within hospital settings. Once legal and cultural impediments are addressed, insights from this research can inform the design and operation of OPS at HUP and similar institutions, contributing to enhanced patient outcomes and community well-being.

HIV Infection in Iran: An Update on Epidemiology, Testing and Gaps

The HIV epidemic continues to disproportionately affect young and active individuals in developing and low-income countries, including Iran. Among high-risk populations in Iran, HIV prevalence peaks at 3.5% among people who inject drugs and 2.5% among men who have sex with men. Despite progress in achieving the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets for HIV diagnosis, treatment, and viral suppression, significant gaps remain in early detection and reaching vulnerable populations, including pre-exposure prophylaxis and targeted outreach to key populations. Education and awareness campaigns are crucial for preventing the spread of HIV, particularly among young people. However, there is a need to improve education and access to information and HIV services for key populations. Expanding HIV testing and counselling services is vital for early diagnosis and treatment. Addressing the issue of late diagnosis, which can negatively impact treatment outcomes and mortality rates, is essential. Integrating HIV services into primary healthcare can improve access and outcomes. A holistic and multi-sectoral approach, encompassing education, prevention, treatment, and care, is necessary to curb the spread of HIV and improve the quality of life for individuals affected by HIV infection in Iran.

Addressing Gender-Based Violence to Support HIV Prevention Efforts: A Review

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a significant global health issue that exacerbates the spread of HIV, particularly among women and vulnerable populations. The links between GBV and HIV transmission are multifaceted, as violence increases individuals' exposure to unprotected sex, limits access to healthcare, and fosters environments of stigma and disempowerment. Victims of GBV, particularly women, may face greater barriers to HIV prevention and care, putting them at higher risk of both HIV infection and poor health outcomes. The intersection of gender inequality and violence creates a cycle that hinders effective HIV prevention efforts and impedes the overall fight against the epidemic. Addressing GBV is crucial to improving HIV prevention strategies. Integrating gender-sensitive approaches into HIV prevention programs can help mitigate the risk of HIV transmission. Key strategies include community-based interventions to shift harmful gender norms, comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services that address both GBV and HIV needs, and strengthening legal frameworks to protect survivors. Empowering individuals through education about sexual rights and HIV prevention is also essential, as is involving men and boys in the promotion of gender equality. These combined efforts can reduce both GBV and HIV transmission by addressing the root causes and providing support for survivors. Keywords: Gender-Based Violence, HIV Prevention, Gender Equality, Sexual and Reproductive Health, Violence Reduction Strategies

Mathematical Modeling and Optimal Control of an HIV/AIDS Transmission Model

In this article, we present a mathematical model for the transmission of HIV with the compartment of individuals in remission and vertical transmission describing the dynamics of the spread of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in a community. In the mathematical analysis of the model, we compute the basic reproduction number R0 and study the existence and stability of the disease-free equilibrium point. We also formulate an appropriate optimal control problem and study the conditions necessary for disease control to determine the role of preventive measures and treatment in reducing the spread of HIV/AIDS. Indeed, we study the impact of these control variables taken separately and combined. So we find that treatment is more cost-effective in reducing the spread of HIV than preventive measures. Finally, the numerical results conform to the theoretical analysis.

A review of network models for HIV spread.

HIV/AIDS has been a global health crisis for over four decades. Network models, which simulate human behavior and intervention impacts, have become an essential tool in guiding HIV prevention strategies and policies. However, no comprehensive survey of network models in HIV research has been conducted. This paper fills that gap, offering a summary of past work and future directions to engage more researchers and inform policy related to eliminating HIV. Network models explicitly represent interactions between individuals, making them well-suited to study HIV transmission dynamics. Two primary modeling paradigms exist: a mechanistic approach from applied mathematics and a statistical approach from the social sciences. Each has distinct strengths and weaknesses, which should be understood for effective application to HIV research. We conducted a systematic review of network models used in HIV research, detailing the model types, populations, interventions, behaviors, datasets, and software employed, while identifying potential future research directions. Network models are particularly valuable for studying behaviors central to HIV transmission, such as partner selection and treatment adherence. Unlike traditional models, they focus on indi- vidual behaviors, aligning them with clinical practice. However, more accurate network data are needed for better model calibration and actionable insights. This paper serves as a point of reference for HIV researchers interested in applying network models and understanding their limitations. To our knowledge, this is the most comprehensive review of HIV network models to date.

Heavily treatment-experienced patients with HIV: are new mechanisms of action enough?

Antiretroviral (ARV) drug resistance poses a threat to ending the HIV epidemic. As the rates of integrase resistance continue to increase globally, the availability of options for HIV treatment becomes limited. Heavily treatment-experienced (HTE) people with HIV (PWH) are limited to two or fewer available fully active ARV classes and are more likely to have an AIDS-defining event. Appropriate identification and management of HTE PWH is crucial to improving patient outcomes and reducing the future spread of drug-resistant HIV. As treatment options become more limited owing to drug resistance, the availability of more potent drugs with a marked increase in virologic suppression is needed in the current ART era. The purpose of this narrative review is to review the identification of HTE PWH, novel mechanisms of resistance, and management of HTE PWH in resource-rich and resource-limited settings using novel ARVs and combination ART.

Stochastic optimal control of pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV infection for a jump model.

We analyze a stochastic optimal control problem for the PReP vaccine in a model for the spread of HIV. To do so, we use a stochastic model for HIV/AIDS with PReP, where we include jumps in the model. This generalizes previous works in the field. First, we prove that there exists a positive, unique, global solution to the system of stochastic differential equations which makes up the model. Further, we introduce a stochastic control problem for dynamically choosing an optimal percentage of the population to receive PReP. By using the stochastic maximum principle, we derive an explicit expression for the stochastic optimal control. Furthermore, via a generalized Lagrange multiplier method in combination with the stochastic maximum principle, we study two types of budget constraints. We illustrate the results by numerical examples, both in the fixed control case and in the stochastic control case.

Youth insights on a digital crowdsourcing intervention to reduce HIV stigma in Kazakhstan

Abstract Background In Kazakhstan, nearly a quarter of new HIV infections occur among adolescents and young adults (AYA). Testing can reduce the spread of HIV, yet AYA have low testing rates in Kazakhstan, due in part to HIV-related stigma. This qualitative paper explores participants’ perceptions of digital crowdsourcing content designed to reduce HIV stigma and promote HIV self-testing among AYA in Kazakhstan. Methods We conducted semi-structured interviews with 20 AYA who participated in a digital crowdsourcing intervention. Questions focused on AYA’s perceptions of the crowdsourced content they viewed for the intervention, namely their likes, dislikes, the perceived impact of the content, and areas for improvement. Qualitative data analysis was conducted using a thematic approach. Results Findings revealed a perceived need for more youth-developed digital interventions. AYA favored artistic, interactive content featuring health specialists, youth characters, or real-life stories. Short videos and images were AYA’s favorite content formats. Many AYA showed less interest in longer videos and text-heavy content, finding them hard to understand. Most participants reported improved knowledge of HIV, reduced stereotypes related to HIV, heightened interests in HIV topics, more willingness to get tested, and changes of attitudes towards people living with HIV. Recommendations for future interventions include tailoring content to different AYA age groups and creating more engaging and easily digestible content. Conclusions This study highlights the potential of crowdsourced digital interventions in promoting HIV knowledge and awareness of HIV-related stigma among AYA in Kazakhstan. AYA appreciated youth-developed, interactive content that included real-life stories and artistic visual presentations. Key messages • This study highlights the potential of crowdsourced digital interventions in promoting HIV knowledge and awareness of HIV-related stigma among AYA in Kazakhstan. • AYA appreciated youth-developed, interactive content that included real-life stories and artistic visual presentations.

Information on HIV and Narration of U=U: a mixed method analysis on social media in Italy

Abstract Background Media play a pivotal role in disseminating accurate information, particularly regarding U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable), to increase awareness and reduce stigma. This study analyses HIV Italian communication on Facebook and Instagram, with a focus on U=U evidence. Methods A mixed-method analysis examined posts on HIV, with linked articles, from Italian news sources from 01/2009 to 04/2023. News sources were categorised as “reliable” or “unreliable” using independent third-party classification. Topic analysis identified the main topics in the posts, while an inductive content analysis was conducted on linked articles regarding U=U. The language and the accuracy in explaining U=U was evaluated through a checklist. Results A total of 10,539 Facebook and 749 Instagram posts were analysed, with 716(7%) and 18(2%) from unreliable sources respectively. Reliable and unreliable content surged around World AIDS Day(WAD) on both platforms. On Facebook, the frequency of unreliable content increased over time, whereas on Instagram it was rare and recent. On Facebook, topics varied between reliable and unreliable sources. The 3 most frequent topics from reliable sources were WAD, voluntary HIV spread, and public figures with HIV; those from unreliable sources were Death and Migrant People; Luc Montagnier and COVID-19 Conspiracies; Public Figures with HIV. On Instagram, the first 3 topics were the Italian National Institute of Health and Prevention, WAD, and public figures with HIV. A total of 68 articles nominating U=U were found and analysed, revealing 4 main areas: U=U definition, Prevention, Impact on people living with HIV, and Stigma. The accuracy in explaining U=U was generally low, with 6 articles(8.8%) providing only a definition. Conclusions HIV communication in Italy is limited and centered around WAD, with persisting bias. The dissemination of the U=U evidence is lacking. Urgent action is needed to shift the narrative and emphasize this evidence Key messages • HIV communication in Italy is limited and concentrated around World AIDS day. • The U=U evidence is poorly disseminated, often providing only a definition and medical explanation.

Epidemiological dynamics and molecular characterization of HIV drug resistance in eastern China from 2020 to 2023.

HIV drug resistance (HIVDR) has become a threat to the elimination of the AIDS epidemic due to the global scale-up of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV-infected individuals. This study aims to investigate the epidemiological dynamics and molecular characterization of HIV pretreatment drug resistance (PDR) and acquired drug resistance (ADR) in Hangzhou, a developed region in China. An epidemiological survey combined with a molecular transmission network and Bayesian analysis was conducted. A total of 3,596 individuals with newly confirmed HIV infections (from 2020 to 2023) and 164 individuals with ART failure (from 2021 to 2023) were included. The molecular transmission network was used to identify key drug-resistant transmission clusters, while the Bayesian analysis was utilized to trace the origins and spread of these clusters. The overall prevalence of PDR was found to be 8.4% (303/3596). Among these cases, PDR to non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) accounted for 4.7% (170/3596), significantly higher than the resistance observed for protease inhibitors (PIs; 2.8%, p < 0.001) and nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs; 1.4%, p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed a significantly higher PDR value among individuals infected with the CRF07_BC subtype compared to those with the CRF08_BC subtype (aOR = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.359-0.859, p = 0.008). The molecular transmission network analysis identified the transmission of the drug resistance mutation (DRM) Q58E within the clusters of the CRF07_BC subtype. The Bayesian analysis suggested that these clusters were introduced into Hangzhou from Shenzhen between 2005 and 2012. Furthermore, the study highlighted 50.6% (83/164) prevalence of ADR among individuals experiencing ART failure. The combined molecular network analysis of virological failure and newly confirmed HIV infections indicated the transmission of the K103N mutation between these groups. In conclusion, targeted interventions may be necessary for specific subtypes and transmission clusters to control the spread of drug-resistant HIV. Continuous monitoring of resistance patterns is critical to inform treatment strategies and optimize ART regimens.

Transmitted drug resistance and molecular transmission network among treatment-naive HIV-1 patients in Wenzhou, China, 2020–2023

BackgroundTransmitted drug resistance (TDR) increases the risk of antiretroviral therapy (ART) failure in HIV-1 patients. This study investigated the molecular epidemiology of TDR and its transmission networks among newly diagnosed HIV-1 patients in Wenzhou, China.MethodsWe enrolled 1878 ART-naive HIV-1 patients from January 2020 to October 2023. TDR was evaluated using the Stanford University HIV Drug Resistance Database. We performed phylogenetic analysis, genotyping, transmission clustering, and population-based TDR-related factor analysis.ResultsAmong 1782 patients with successful genotyping, TDR prevalence was 5.7%. Multivariable analysis identified CRF08_BC subtype (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 18.59, 95% CI 3.79-336.18, p = 0.004), CD4 > 500 cells/mm³ (aOR 2.19, 95% CI 1.16–4.03, p = 0.013), and year 2023 (aOR 1.83, 95% CI 1.11–4.89, p = 0.039) as factors associated with higher TDR risk. The most prevalent NNRTI mutations were K103N, E138A, and V179E. Seven TDR transmission clusters were identified, notably one with V179D that expanded during 2020–2023.ConclusionsWhile TDR prevalence in Wenzhou remained lower than in other Chinese regions, an upward trend was observed. Most resistant individuals were in transmission clusters, predominantly middle-aged and elderly. NNRTI resistance was severe and concentrated in efavirenz, nevirapine, and rilpivirine. Enhanced HIV surveillance and wider free antiretroviral options are crucial to control drug-resistant HIV spread in Wenzhou.

Prevalence, incidence, and residual risk for human immunodeficiency virus among blood donors from 2003 to 2022 in Guangzhou, China.

China's significant population affected by HIV poses a substantial threat to blood transfusion safety. Despite advancements in blood testing techniques, a residual risk of HIV transmission persists. Accurately assessing HIV epidemic and the residual risk is vital for monitoring blood supply safety and evaluating the effectiveness of new screening tests. We conducted a retrospective analysis of HIV detection results among voluntary blood donors from 2003 to 2022. The study included data on HIV-confirmed positive donors, HIV prevalence, infection risk factors, and an incidence-window period mathematical model to estimate the residual risk of HIV. Between 2003 and 2022, HIV prevalence among blood donors in Guangzhou showed a peak-shaped trend, initially increasing before declining. The overall HIV prevalence was 18.9 infections per 100,000 donations. Male donors had a significantly higher prevalence compared with female donors. Donors aged 26-35 years had the highest prevalence. Ethnic minority donors had a higher prevalence compared with Han donors. Repeat donors had a lower prevalence compared with first-time donors. Donors from other provinces had a higher prevalence compared with local donors. During the period of 2003 to 2022, the residual risk of HIV in Guangzhou steadily decreased, reaching a notable 1 in 526,316 donations in the past two years. The HIV epidemic among blood donors in Guangzhou remains severe, but the residual risk of HIV is decreasing. Novel detection methods have proven advantageous in reducing this residual risk. Implementing additional effective measures is imperative to ensure blood safety and curb the spread of HIV.

Profile of Persons Recently Infected with HIV-1 in Belgium: New Insights to Tailor Prevention Efforts

Despite wide availability of prevention and treatment services, including the ongoing roll-out of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), the HIV epidemic is not under control in Belgium. Hence, there is a recognized need to improve case finding and early diagnosis to curb the further spread of HIV more effectively. The objective of the present study was to improve insight into the profiles of persons recently infected with HIV-1 and on their prevention trajectory. Between May 2018 and December 2022, we selected persons diagnosed in Belgium within three months of the presumed infection date. We then analyzed information collected using a questionnaire covering topics on HIV testing, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), PrEP use, sexual behavior, partner notification and substance use. The data obtained were analyzed alongside information derived from phylogenetic cluster analysis of the viral source of infection. A total of 93 persons with a recent HIV-1 infection completed the questionnaire, the majority (74%) being MSM, 14% were heterosexual women and 12% were heterosexual men. Nearly one-third of participants engaged in sexual activity with an average of 2 to 5 casual partners around the presumed time of infection. A significant percentage reported frequent substance use during sexual activity (65%), being previously diagnosed with STI (65%) and using condoms infrequently (44%). 63% reported a testing frequency of at least one HIV test per year before being diagnosed and 46% notified their previous sex partner(s) after being diagnosed. Over 20% of respondents (including 11 MSM, 4 heterosexual men and 5 heterosexual women) reported exclusive sexual activity with their steady partner. Eight participants (9%, all MSM, 75% born outside of Belgium) reported PrEP use in the past. No significant differences in behavioral characteristics were found between persons who were part of a local transmission cluster (48%) and persons that were not part of a cluster (47%). The study results revealed that the majority of persons diagnosed early with HIV-1 infection in Belgium exhibited characteristics corresponding to a high-at-risk population and were aware of this risk, as evidenced by a high testing frequency. However, partner notification rates were low and use and awareness of PrEP limited. A notable group of persons not corresponding to the high-risk profiles was also identified. This information may help to expose missed opportunities for prevention and contribute to enhancing the implementation of future prevention measures.

Faith-based Community Engagement in HIV-Testing and Awareness of HIV Status in Southern, Rural, African American Communities.

The Deep South is the epicenter of the HIV-epidemic in the United States, with rural AAs bearing the greatest burden. Traditional efforts to improve testing efforts have been largely unsuccessful due to their failure to recognize and leverage the sociopolitical and cultural factors that affect the uptake of HIV-screening interventions at the community level. The purpose of this study was to gain a deeper understanding of the socio-cultural contexts impacting HIV-testing in the rural South, and to assess strategies to increase testing in rural, Southern communities. Focus groups (n = 8) and semi-structured interviews (n = 31) were conducted among community and faith-based leaders in Alabama and Mississippi, to inform our understanding of local perceptions of HIV infection, barriers and facilitators impacting HIV-testing, and best strategies for improving testing efforts at the local level. Interviews and focus groups were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed to extract major themes. While both faith-based and community leaders reported at least some stigmatizing attitudes towards HIV infection, faith-based leaders were more likely to report discomfort being around someone with HIV and were more likely to link the spread of HIV to immoral behaviors. The combination of the cultural importance of the Church, deep-seated religiosity among community members, and faith-based messages associating HIV infection with immorality directly impacted HIV stigma within the community-in turn, decreasing willingness to participate in HIV-testing, disclose positive HIV serostatus, or openly discuss transmission protection behaviors. The Church was identified as crucial to include to improve HIV-testing efforts in the rural South, due to their prominent sociopolitical roles within communities and ability to influence community members' perceptions of HIV stigma. Faith-based leaderships should be included in initiatives to increase improve HIV-testing and awareness of status and reduce HIV disparities in the Deep South.

HIV/AIDS in Papua New Guinea: A Comprehensive Review

This comprehensive review examines the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Papua New Guinea (PNG), a country characterized by its unique cultural and geographical context. Although the global HIV/AIDS crisis began in the early 1980s, PNG’s first case was not recorded until 1987. Since then, the epidemic has significantly impacted the nation, evolving into a critical public health challenge. This review explores the historical context, epidemiology, socioeconomic impacts, and public health responses to HIV/AIDS in PNG. The epidemiological analysis highlights the generalized nature of the epidemic in PNG, with heterosexual transmission being the predominant mode. Key populations, such as sex workers and men who have sex with men (MSM), are disproportionately affected due to social stigma, discrimination, and limited access to healthcare. Regional disparities in prevalence are also notable, with urban areas and certain provinces, particularly in the Highlands region, experiencing higher burdens of the disease. The socioeconomic impacts of HIV/AIDS in PNG are profound, straining the already limited healthcare infrastructure and exacerbating poverty, especially in rural areas. The review discusses how cultural factors, including traditional beliefs, polygamy, and the practice of bride price, contribute to the spread of HIV and hinder public health interventions. Stigma and discrimination further complicate efforts to manage the epidemic, often deterring individuals from seeking testing and treatment. Public health responses in PNG have included preventive campaigns, expanded testing and counseling services, and the introduction of Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) programs. Community-based approaches, such as peer education and support groups, have also played a crucial role in combating the epidemic. Despite these efforts, challenges remain, including geographic isolation, cultural barriers, and limited resources. The review concludes with future directions and recommendations for strengthening PNG’s healthcare infrastructure, addressing stigma and discrimination, enhancing prevention strategies, and investing in research and surveillance. These measures are essential for controlling the HIV/AIDS epidemic and improving the overall health and well-being of the population in Papua New Guinea. Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Papua New Guinea, epidemiology, public health, Antiretroviral Therapy (ART).

Molecular genetic monitoring of HIV-1 variants circulating in St. Petersburg

The aim of the study: to assess the genetic diversity of HIV-1 variants circulating in St. Petersburg.Materials and methods. The study included 289 patients with virological ART failure in 2022 in the St. Petersburg AIDS Center. Fragments of the pol gene encoding integrase, reverse transcriptase and protease were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction and Sanger sequencing. Phylogenetic tree created by the Neighbor-joining method with 1000 repeats of nucleotide sequences, bootstrap values &gt;70. To assess the circulation of HIV genovariants in dynamics in St. Petersburg, sequences and clinical and laboratory parameters obtained from 544 patients since 2018. The total sample included 833 samples (289 were collected in 2022), compared with the results of a study from 1104 HIV-infected patients in 2006–2011.Results and discussion. Monovariants of HIV dominated in the examined patients (95.1%, 275 people), subtype A6 — 88.2% (255 people); subtype B — 5.9% (17 people); C — 0.3% (1 person); G — 0.7% (2 people), the proportion of recombinant forms — 4.9% (14 people). In the sample collection, the proportion of new HIV cases of non-A subtype was 13.3% in 2006–2011, and 11.1% in 2018–2022. A significant increase in the incidence of recombinant forms of HIV-1 was revealed from 1.6% to 3.5% (c2=6.111; p=0.014). In the group (2018–2022), the recombinant form of CRF63_02A6 was more common (15/29 people).Conclusion. Phylogenetic analyses makes it possible to determine HIV subtypes, but also to establish the potential geographical origin of the virus, to identify transmission clusters taking into account the socio-demographic indicators of HIV-infected patients. Molecular epidemiological monitoring can be used to develop and implement programs to counter the spread of HIV among the population. The dominant genetic variant of HIV circulating in St. Petersburg is sub-subtype A6, as it was 10 years ago. The proportion of new cases of infection with non-A subtype of HIV remains stable, with a downward trend. The increase in the frequency of detection of recombinant forms of HIV-1 is probably related to the migration processes of the population.

Prevention of HIV/AIDS Transmission in Key Communities in Surabaya

Indonesia is in third place among Asia Pacific countries for the growth and spread of HIV with a total of 46,000 cases. East Java Province is designated as an area with concentrated HIV prevalence along with five other provinces, namely DKI Jakarta, Papua, Bali, Riau and West Java. Knowledge is one of the predisposing factors in early detection of HIV disease, as well as risky behavior that can cause HIV AIDS transmission. This research aims to provide education to key communities as an effort to increase knowledge about HIV AIDS prevention and transmission. This research takes the form of experimental research, namely by measuring the increase in respondents' knowledge through pretest and posttest after the intervention. The intervention takes the form of providing education related to knowledge of preventing HIV/AIDS transmission. The intervention that will be carried out to increase knowledge about safe sexual behavior and preventing HIV AIDS transmission will be carried out by providing education on preventing HIV AIDS transmission in key communities at the Mahameru Foundation for 40 respondents. Risky sexual behavior such as having sexual relations with irregular partners, not using condoms during sexual intercourse, having sexual relations under the influence of alcohol and drugs are still carried out by key communities. The level of knowledge regarding risky sexual behavior, how HIV AIDS is transmitted and how to prevent HIV AIDS before education is carried out is still low.

Clinical trials and recent progress in HIV vaccine development.

The greatest obstacle for scientists is to develop an effective HIV vaccine. An effective vaccine represents the last hope for halting the unstoppable global spread of HIV and its catastrophic clinical consequences. Creating this vaccine has been challenging due to the virus's extensive genetic variability and the unique role of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) in containing it. Innovative methods to stimulate CTL have demonstrated significant therapeutic advantages in nonhuman primate model systems, unlike traditional vaccination techniques that are not expected to provide safe and efficient protection against HIV. Human clinical trials are currently evaluating these vaccination strategies, which involve plasmid DNA and live recombinant vectors. This review article covers the existing vaccines and ongoing trial vaccines. It also explores the different approaches used in developing HIV vaccines, including their molecular mechanisms, target site effectiveness, and potential side effects.

Situational assessment and epidemiology of HIV, HBV and HCV among people who use and inject drugs in Ghana.

People who inject drugs (PWID) and people who use drugs (PWUD) are an important population group that remain under-served in Ghana. Though PWID and PWUD are among the key populations most-at-risk to acquire sexually transmitted or blood-borne diseases, they are among those with the least access to human immunodeficiency (HIV), hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV) viruses' prevention, care and treatment services in Ghana due to lack of data on them. We provide a rapid assessment of the PWUD and PWID situation in Ghana. This rapid cross-sectional design undertook consultative meetings between the study team and relevant stakeholders, including Civil Society Organizations (CSO) working with PWUD/PWID. The assessment considered a representative sample of PWID and PWUD. It was conducted in four (4) selected regions of Ghana (Greater Accra, Ashanti, Western, and Northern). Overall, 323 participants were interviewed using respondent-driven sampling (RDS) approach. Information obtained from participants were demographics, HIV risk behaviors, human immunodeficiency (HIV) and sexually transmitted infections (STI)-related knowledge HIV/HCV/HBV screening, attitude, and practices among others. Analyses were conducted using Stata version 17 and RDSAT version 7.1.46 software. Drug use was found to be more prevalent among the youth with a median age of 37 years. Majority of the respondents were males (86%). About 28% of the female respondents identified themselves as sex workers, while about 74% have been involved in transactional sex. The median age at which respondents started using and injecting drugs was 20 and 22 years respectively. Majority (68%) of the respondents consume drugs through smoking, with 20% through snorting, inhaling or swallowing and 12% through injection. The drug mostly used among the respondents was heroin (52%). The most commonly injected drug was cocaine (55%). About 64.7% of respondents reported mixing two or more drugs. HIV prevalence among respondents was 2.5%, 12.3% among women and 17.7% among women engaged in sex work, highlighting the overlap vulnerability. The prevalence of hepatitis C was 6.0%, and Hepatitis B was 4.5%. Access to care is limited, with 63% of the respondents never been tested for HIV. These rapid assessment findings reveal the challenging conditions for people who use and inject drugs coupled with a relatively high prevalence of HIV and Hepatitis C compared to the general population. However, it also reveals that Ghana has a window of opportunity to prevent an exponential spread of HIV and Hepatitis in this population. Therefore, there is the need to implement prevention and treatment programs for HIV and hepatitis among people who use and inject drugs including essential strategies for an enabling environment in Ghana.