U=U : Undetectable = Untransmittable

What does this mean?

A person infected with HIV who is properly following antiretroviral treatment can achieve an undetectable viral load.

This means that the amount of virus in their blood is so low that it can no longer be detected by standard tests.

When a person is undetectable, they cannot transmit HIV to others (through sex, blood or breast milk). It is a great relief in the lives of PLHIV (people living with HIV) to no longer have to fear transmitting the virus.

This result is based on numerous international scientific studies conducted on thousands of couples. No transmission was observed when the person living with HIV was undetectable.

 

When properly treated, HIV is no longer contagious

 

How do you become undetectable?

To achieve and maintain an undetectable viral load, it is necessary to:

  • follow an antiretroviral treatment prescribed by a doctor,
  • take this treatment regularly,
  • undergo medical check-ups to monitor the viral load.

With proper care and support, most people living with HIV achieve an undetectable viral load within a few months.

What are the benefits of treatment?

Antiretroviral treatment has many benefits, both for the person living with HIV and for society:

  • Maintaining good health: treatment blocks the virus from multiplying, protects the immune system and prevents HIV-related illnesses.
  • Normal life expectancy: with regular medical follow-up, people living with HIV can live as long as the general population.
  • Improved quality of life: an undetectable viral load allows people to live life to the fullest, plan for the future, and maintain emotional and sexual relationships without fear of transmission.
  • Protection of partners: when the viral load is undetectable, HIV cannot be transmitted sexually.
  • Protection during pregnancy and childbirth: consistent treatment greatly reduces the risk of HIV transmission from mother to child.
  • Contribution to public health: more people tested and treated means fewer new infections across society.

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