We’re Stronger When We Work Together: Dr. Wolitski Shares Closing Thoughts from AIDS 2016

As the 2016 International AIDS Conference (AIDS 2016) came to a close in Durban, South Africa, we visited via Facebook Live with Dr. Rich Wolitski, Acting Director of the HHS Office of HIV/AIDS and Infectious Disease Policy (OHAIDP). He reflected on some of the key scientific findings shared during the conference as well as other messages from the conference.

He discussed several studies from different settings that provided further evidence of the benefit of early HIV treatment both for the health of the person living by HIV and its impact on transmission. He also remarked on the number of studies on the efficacy of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) when adherence is high, and also some of the other insights those studies have offered.

In addition to highlights from the discussions about the tools we now have in the fight against HIV/AIDS, he also discussed the advocacy efforts that were also part of the conference giving voice to the needs of the key populations most impacted by HIV, including women and girls; gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men; sex workers; and people who inject drugs.

Bringing together scientists, advocates, people living with HIV, implementers and others, the conference gave everyone much to work with as we continue efforts to bring an end to AIDS.

Watch the Facebook Live interview on our Facebook pageExit Disclaimer, or view it below.