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The History of the HIV/AIDS Epidemic in Africa

  • The Global Epidemic (SH Vermund, Section Editor)
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Abstract

HIV testing of African immigrants in Belgium showed that HIV existed among Africans by 1983. However, the epidemic was recognized much later in most parts of sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) due to stigma and perceived fear of possible negative consequences to the countries’ economies. This delay had devastating mortality, morbidity, and social consequences. In countries where earlier recognition occurred, political leadership was vital in mounting a response. The response involved establishment of AIDS control programs and research on the HIV epidemiology and candidate preventive interventions. Over time, the number of effective interventions has grown; the game changer being triple antiretroviral therapy (ART). ART has led to a rapid decline in HIV-related morbidity and mortality in addition to prevention of onward HIV transmission. Other effective interventions include safe male circumcision, pre-exposure prophylaxis, and post-exposure prophylaxis. However, since none of these is sufficient by itself, delivering a combination package of these interventions is important for ending the HIV epidemic as a public health threat.

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  1. Rakai Health Sciences Program, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Nakiwogo Road, PO BOX 49, Entebbe, Uganda

    Joseph Kagaayi & David Serwadda

  2. Makerere University School of Public Health, Old Mulago Hill Road, New Mulago Hospital Complex, P.o.Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda

    David Serwadda

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  1. Joseph Kagaayi
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Kagaayi, J., Serwadda, D. The History of the HIV/AIDS Epidemic in Africa. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 13, 187–193 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11904-016-0318-8

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