HIV co-discoverer raises hope on cure

The globally acclaimed co- discoverer of HIV and director Institute of Human Virology Baltimore United States of America, Prof. Robert Gallo, says a functional cure for HIV can be achieved in the next few years.

He stressed the need for new approaches to achieve a vaccine for HIV.

He spoke in Abuja yesterday during a scientific  seminar organised by the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) ahead of the unveiling of its campus.

He said, “I think we will reach a functional cure. Where will the next advances come from in my judgment? I think out of detailed studies of pathogenesis namely, the mechanisms of how HIV causes AIDS. 

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“I believe that with great progress in that line in the coming year.” 

According to him, preventive vaccine for HIV  is not in the immediate horizon, though there is hope coming from certain directions different from the current directions. 

Chief Executive Officer of IHVN, Patrick Dakum, said there was need for increased efforts from government towards funding research in the country.

Prof. William Blattner of the IHVN board said there was need for sustainability of world treatment for HIV post US PEPFAR program.

He said the contribution of the Nigerian government was $ 91, 500, 000 out of the $532,000, 000 HIV expenditure for  2021.

Executive Director, International Research Centre of Excellence of IHVN, Professor Alash’le Abimiku, said there were 40 funded research at the centre.