Public Health England (PHE) has published its annual elimination of HIV and HIV testing reports for 2017.
Commenting on the significant findings of the reports, Dr Valerie Delpech, Head of HIV Surveillance at Public Health England (PHE), said:
This year, there are 3 firsts in the 30-year history of the UK HIV epidemic. In London, all the global UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets have been met with 90% of people living with HIV infection diagnosed, 97% of people diagnosed receiving treatment and 97% of those receiving treatment virally suppressed. HIV transmission among gay and bisexual men has fallen, and the death rate among people with HIV who are diagnosed promptly and on treatment is now comparable to the rest of the population.
We celebrate these extraordinary achievements which are the result of a comprehensive response involving many key players and organisations. By continuing to invest in effective preventative measures including condom use, expanded HIV testing, prompt treatment and the use of PrEP, the elimination of HIV transmission, AIDS and HIV-related deaths could become a reality in the UK.
HIV Testing in England: 2017 report:
Towards elimination of HIV transmission, AIDS and HIV-related deaths in the UK: