“Test and Treat” Requires Attention to Early Infection

A mathematical model suggests that nearly 40% of new HIV infections are attributable to sexual contact with individuals who are in the early stages of infection.

Mathematical models have suggested that testing all adolescents and adults annually for HIV infection and immediately treating those found to be infected (the “test-and-treat” approach) could significantly reduce, and even prevent, HIV transmission in the setting of a generalized HIV epidemic (JW AIDS Clin Care Dec 15 2008). However, some experts have questioned whether these models adequately account for the increased likelihood of viral transmission during early versus chronic infection.

Now, researchers have developed a new mathematical model based on detailed behavioral and viral-load data collected in Lilongwe, Malawi, where heterosexual contact is the predominant mode of HIV transmission. The model included parameters for both casual a…

Reviewing Author

Mauro Schechter, MD, PhD

“Test and Treat” Requires Attention to Early Infection

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Reviewing Author