Health

South African child ‘virtually cured’ of HIV

Teunis Felter
Written by Teunis Felter

A nine-year-old infected with HIV at birth has spent most of their life without needing any treatment, say doctors in South Africa. The child, whose identity is being protected, was given a burst of treatment shortly after birth. They have since been off drugs for eight-and-a-half years without symptoms or signs of active virus. Most people need treatment every day to prevent HIV destroying the immune system and causing AIDS. Understanding how the child is protected could lead to new drugs or a vaccine for stopping HIV.

http://www.bbc.com/news/health-40703306

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About the author

Teunis Felter

Teunis Felter

Teunis Felter has over 20 years experience as an author, editor, and scientist. When not exploring outside, he enjoys reading history, researching genealogy, and civilly discussing politics.