Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically targeting CD4+ T cells, which are crucial for fighting infections. When HIV enters the body, it progressively weakens the immune system, making it difficult to combat other diseases and infections.
HIV and AIDS are not the same condition. HIV is the virus itself, whilst AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the most advanced stage of HIV infection. A person develops AIDS when their CD4+ cell count drops below 200 cells per microlitre or when they develop certain opportunistic infections.
HIV is transmitted through:
In Australia, approximately 29,000 people are living with HIV, with around 1,000 new diagnoses annually. Early detection through regular testing is essential, as modern treatments can help people with HIV live normal, healthy lives when started promptly.
Several HIV testing options are available across Australia, ensuring accessible and confidential screening for all individuals. Understanding these options helps you make informed decisions about your sexual health.
Australia offers multiple testing methods including antibody tests, antigen/antibody combination tests, and nucleic acid tests (NAT). Rapid point-of-care tests provide results within 20 minutes, whilst laboratory-based tests typically take 1-3 days but offer greater accuracy during the window period.
Regular testing is recommended for sexually active individuals, particularly those with multiple partners or engaging in higher-risk activities. The window period varies between test types, ranging from 10 days to 3 months after potential exposure.
Testing services are widely available through:
Most testing services in Australia are free and confidential, with many offering same-day results and immediate counselling support.
Australia offers comprehensive HIV treatment through antiretroviral therapy (ART), with most medications subsidised under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Modern ART combines multiple drugs to effectively suppress the virus and maintain undetectable viral loads.
The PBS covers a wide range of HIV treatments, making them affordable for Australian patients. Common medication combinations include efavirenz-based regimens, which remain a cornerstone of HIV treatment. Tenofovir and emtricitabine combinations are frequently prescribed as part of complete treatment regimens, offering excellent viral suppression with manageable side effect profiles.
Integrase inhibitor options have revolutionised HIV care, providing potent viral suppression with fewer side effects. These medications work by preventing the virus from integrating into healthy cells, effectively stopping replication. Popular regimens include:
HIV medications work by targeting different stages of the viral lifecycle, preventing replication and maintaining undetectable viral loads. Strict medication adherence is crucial for treatment success, preventing drug resistance and ensuring optimal health outcomes.
Successful HIV management requires close collaboration with experienced healthcare providers, including HIV specialists, GPs, and pharmacists. Regular appointments ensure optimal treatment monitoring and adjustments when necessary.
Regular viral load and CD4 count monitoring tracks treatment effectiveness and immune system health. These tests, typically performed every three to six months, guide treatment decisions and ensure optimal outcomes.
Managing side effects and drug interactions requires ongoing attention. Modern HIV medications generally have fewer side effects than earlier treatments, but individual responses vary. Healthcare providers can adjust regimens to minimise adverse effects whilst maintaining viral suppression.
Lifestyle considerations include maintaining healthy habits, avoiding drug interactions with recreational substances, and managing other health conditions. Mental health support services are readily available through HIV organisations and healthcare providers. Regular health monitoring encompasses cardiovascular health, bone density, kidney function, and routine screening for other conditions, ensuring comprehensive long-term wellness for people living with HIV in Australia.
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effective HIV prevention method that involves taking antiretroviral medication daily to reduce the risk of HIV infection. PrEP works by blocking the virus from establishing a permanent infection if you're exposed to HIV. When taken consistently, PrEP can reduce the risk of getting HIV from sex by more than 90% and from injecting drug use by more than 70%.
In Australia, PrEP medications contain two active ingredients: tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and emtricitabine. The original brand name medication is Truvada, manufactured by Gilead Sciences. Several generic alternatives are now available through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), making PrEP more accessible and affordable for eligible patients across Australia.
Truvada was the first PrEP medication approved in Australia, followed by generic versions that contain the same active ingredients. Generic alternatives offer the same effectiveness as Truvada but are available at a lower cost through the PBS. Your healthcare provider can help determine which option is most suitable for your individual needs and circumstances.
PrEP may be appropriate for individuals who are HIV-negative but at higher risk of HIV infection. This includes people who:
To access PrEP in Australia, you'll need a prescription from a qualified healthcare provider. This can be your GP, a sexual health clinic doctor, or an HIV specialist. Your doctor will assess your risk factors, conduct necessary tests including HIV and kidney function tests, and discuss whether PrEP is right for you. Many sexual health clinics across Australia offer specialised PrEP services with experienced healthcare professionals.
PrEP is available on the PBS for eligible patients, significantly reducing the cost. With a valid prescription and meeting PBS criteria, you'll pay the standard PBS co-payment fee. For concession card holders, the cost is further reduced. Private prescriptions are also available but will be more expensive than PBS-subsidised medications.
PrEP is highly effective when taken as prescribed, but it's not 100% effective against HIV and doesn't protect against other sexually transmitted infections. Common side effects are generally mild and may include nausea, headache, and fatigue, which often improve over time. Serious side effects are rare but can include kidney problems and bone density changes, which is why regular monitoring is essential.
If you're taking PrEP, you'll need regular check-ups with your healthcare provider every three months. These appointments include HIV testing, kidney function monitoring, and screening for other sexually transmitted infections. Your doctor will also assess your ongoing risk factors and discuss adherence to ensure PrEP continues to be appropriate and effective for you.
In Australia, people living with HIV are protected under federal and state anti-discrimination laws. The Disability Discrimination Act 1992 prohibits discrimination based on HIV status in employment, education, accommodation, and access to services. Each state and territory also has specific anti-discrimination legislation that provides additional protections. These laws ensure that people with HIV can participate fully in society without facing unfair treatment.
Decisions about disclosing your HIV status are personal and complex. In Australia, there are legal obligations regarding disclosure in certain circumstances, particularly related to sexual activity, but these laws vary between states and territories. With effective treatment achieving undetectable viral loads, the risk of transmission is eliminated, which has influenced recent legal reforms in some jurisdictions. It's advisable to seek legal advice and counselling to understand your rights and obligations.
Living with HIV doesn't mean the end of intimate relationships or sexual health. With effective antiretroviral therapy achieving an undetectable viral load, people with HIV cannot sexually transmit the virus (U=U: Undetectable equals Untransmittable). Open communication with partners, regular sexual health check-ups, and understanding safer sex practices help maintain healthy relationships and overall wellbeing.
Australian workplace laws protect employees from HIV-related discrimination. Generally, you're not required to disclose your HIV status to employers unless it directly affects your ability to perform essential job functions safely. Most occupations pose no restrictions for people with HIV. If workplace issues arise, seeking advice from anti-discrimination agencies or legal services can help protect your employment rights.
Australia has numerous organisations providing support for people living with HIV:
With early diagnosis and effective antiretroviral therapy, people with HIV in Australia can expect a near-normal life expectancy. Modern HIV treatments are highly effective, with fewer side effects than earlier medications. Regular monitoring and adherence to treatment help maintain good health and prevent HIV progression. Many people with HIV lead healthy, productive lives with minimal impact from their condition.
HIV care in Australia is delivered through a network of specialist clinics, hospital-based services, and trained GPs. Major cities have dedicated HIV clinics with multidisciplinary teams including doctors, nurses, social workers, and pharmacists. Regional areas are supported through shared care arrangements and telehealth services. The Australian HIV medicine pathway ensures coordinated, high-quality care regardless of your location.
HIV medications are subsidised through the PBS, making them affordable for most patients. Additional financial support may be available through state and territory health departments, community organisations, and government assistance programs. Many HIV services offer social work support to help navigate healthcare costs, insurance issues, and access to benefits. Medicare covers most HIV-related medical consultations and tests, reducing out-of-pocket expenses.
