This post was originally published on public health newswire (as part of APHA, the American Public Health Association), and it shares some exciting news!
The FDA has just approved the first drug (Truvada) to reduce HIV transmission to those not yet infected - so it's a preventive measure for those who are at high risk of HIV. Unfortunately, not a cure, but a fabulous step in the right direction and adds an important prevention method to our HIV prevention arsenal.
"FDA approves first drug to reduce HIV risk"
I just finished helping work on a book chapter about HIV prevention interventions (this chapter focused on adolescents), and a part of what we wanted to convey was the importance of innovative methods as part of a comprehensive prevention plan. So it's not just about telling someone to take the HIV medication, use condoms, and abstain from sex - which are all important points to convey in the fight against HIV/AIDS, but does not necessarily guarantee that these safe practices will happen each and every time.
That reminds me...
Though National HIV Testing Day (June 27) has passed, any day is a good one to get tested if you have not already! It is painless and fairly quick - and you'll have some peace of mind, which is priceless.
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