Is HIV still prevalent in Australia: Statistics and misconceptions

While a triumph of modern medicine, advancements in HIV management have led to a nuanced reality: in countries like Australia that no longer face it as an epidemic, public awareness has diminished. Many people now overlook the ongoing implications of HIV, assuming it is no longer a pressing issue. However, in many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), HIV remains a significant and alarming health challenge.

Researchers like Dr. Nelsensius Fauk, from the Centre for Public Health, Equity and Human Flourishing (PHEHF) at Torrens University Australia, are committed to exploring HIV's continuing impact on individuals and communities worldwide. This article seeks to shed light on the current HIV situation in Australia, including statistics, treatment options, and the persistence of stigma and misconceptions. By understanding the ongoing challenges, we can better support those living with the virus and continue working toward reducing HIV’s impact.

What is the cause of HIV?

HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells (T cells) crucial for fighting infections. Over time, if untreated, HIV can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), a condition where the immune system is severely weakened, leaving individuals vulnerable to opportunistic infections.

The difference between HIV and AIDS

HIV refers to the virus itself, while AIDS represents the advanced stage of HIV infection. Not everyone with HIV develops AIDS, thanks to effective treatments that can suppress the virus.

Transmission routes

HIV spreads through specific body fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk. Common transmission routes include unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding without proper interventions.

HIV statistics in Australia

Current figures

The number of reported cases of HIV in Australia is slightly increasing each year, according to data from Health Equity Matters. The most recent data shows there were approximately 30,010 Australians living with HIV in 2023. This is compared to 29,045 in 2021, 27,545 in 2019, and 25,313 in 2017.

Groups at higher risk

Certain demographics in Australia are disproportionately affected by HIV. These include:

• Gay and bisexual men account for the majority of cases
• Migrants from countries with a high prevalence of HIV 
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities

While gay and bisexual men are still the most at-risk group, the concentration of cases in this community is decreasing. However, the number of cases within the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and migrants from countries with a high prevalence of HIV is increasing.

People who inject drugs are also a risk group. According to a recent study published in BMC, approximately 3% of cases of HIV in Australia are people who inject drugs.

Probability of contracting HIV

The risk of contracting HIV in Australia is low overall compared to other countries. However, gaps in testing and education persist in specific populations, emphasising the need for targeted interventions.

Misconceptions and myths about HIV

Misunderstandings about HIV contribute significantly to stigma and misinformation. Common myths include:

• “HIV inevitably leads to a fatal outcome." This isn’t true. Modern treatments allow individuals with HIV to live long, healthy lives. This study shows that sustained ART leads to significant viral suppression and improves survival rates among people living with HIV.
• “HIV only affects certain groups.” This isn’t true. While some groups are at higher risk, anyone can contract HIV, regardless of their sexual orientation or background.
• “You can get HIV through casual contact.” This isn’t true. HIV cannot be transmitted through casual contact such as hugging, shaking hands, or sharing utensils.

Can HIV be treated?

Treatment options

HIV treatment has advanced significantly. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is highly effective in suppressing the virus to undetectable levels, preventing progression to AIDS and reducing the risk of transmission to very low levels.

Healthcare and support services

Australia offers comprehensive healthcare services for HIV management. Public clinics, specialised HIV services, and support organisations provide testing, treatment, and counselling.

Subsidised Treatment

HIV treatments in Australia are subsidised under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), ensuring affordability for all individuals requiring medication.

Education and awareness around HIV in Australia

Public health campaigns

Australia has had a world-leading approach to tackling HIV by implementing several responsive initiatives. Campaigns like the "Ending HIV" programme by ACON and government-led awareness drives have significantly increased testing rates and reduced stigma.

Combatting stigma and misinformation

Educational programmes in schools, community outreach efforts, and the involvement of organisations have been at the heart of promoting accurate information about HIV.

Worldwide impact

HIV is still an ongoing public health crisis in many countries worldwide. Each impacted country faces its own unique challenges, risk groups and outcomes.

Dr. Nelsensius Fauk has conducted extensive research on HIV, its social determinants, stigma, and impacts on infected and affected populations, with a particular focus on Indonesia.

Dr. Fauk’s research has found that:

• Some healthcare providers in Yogyakarta and Belu, Indonesia, observed and, in some cases, personally engaged in stigmatising and discriminatory behaviours towards people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA).
• Individuals in rural Indonesia often face greater challenges to their urban counterparts, including limited access to healthcare services and heightened stigma, leading to a lower quality of life.
• Women living with HIV in low- and middle-income Asian countries experience significant psychological and social challenges, including depression, anxiety, and social isolation.
• Women living with HIV in East Timor have experienced an alarming increase in gender-based violence.