Namibia surpasses target for viral suppression
A population-level study in Namibia (NAMPHIA) found that 77% of people living with HIV in the country are virally suppressed; that is, the HIV level in their blood has fallen to low levels. Viral suppression indicates that people living with HIV are on successful treatment, which not only improves their health, but also prevents transmission to others.
Presenter Bernard Haufiku, Namibian Minister of Health and Social Services, noted that Namibia surpassed the UNAIDS goal of achieving 73% viral suppression by 2020. Its success reflects a high-level commitment to HIV treatment: in 2015, Namibia implemented an Acceleration Plan that rapidly scaled up HIV testing and treatment services. [Summary based on submitted abstract; updated data may be presented on site.]
Abstract: Progress toward HIV epidemic control: Results from the Namibia Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment (PHIA)
Session: Pedal to the Metal: Accelerating the Cascade (Forum, Thursday, 26 July, 16:30-18:00)