| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
September 24, 2009
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Media Contacts:
Krishna Stone, GMHC, 212-367-1016
For First Time Ever, A Vaccine Prevents Some HIV Infection; Results "Very Promising," Says Gay Men's Health Crisis
September 24, 2009 — For the first time in almost three decades since the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) emerged, a vaccine trial in Thailand has found rates of HIV infection 31 percent lower among trial volunteers who received the vaccine versus those who received a placebo.
"While these results give us great hope, a fully effective HIV vaccine is still a ways off," said Marjorie J. Hill, PhD, Chief Executive Officer of GMHC, the nation's oldest HIV/AIDS organization. "In the meantime, we know that using condoms and not sharing needles are two of the most effective HIV prevention technologies. With 7,500 people newly infected each day around the world, comprehensive sex education and access to proven prevention tools can prevent thousands of HIV infections right now."
The trial volunteers were given condoms, counselling and treatment for any sexually transmitted infections, and were tested every six months for HIV. Any who became infected were given free treatment with antiviral medicines. They were followed for three years after vaccination ended.
"We commend the 16,400 altruistic men and women in Thailand who participated in this important vaccine trial, as well as the National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases for providing the funding, and the U.S. Military Research Program for leading this effort," added Hill.
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Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC) is a not-for-profit, volunteer-supported and community-based organization committed to national leadership in the fight against AIDS. We provide prevention and care services to more than 15,000 men, women and families that are living with, or affected by, HIV/AIDS in New York City, and advocate for scientific, evidence-based public health solutions for hundreds of thousands worldwide.
© 2009 Gay Men's Health Crisis |
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