IMPORTANT DEVELOPMENTS IN THE HISTORY OF AIDS

A Timeline of AIDS

Before 1970s

HIV probably enters Haiti around 1966.

HIV (the virus that causes AIDS) probably transfers to humans in Africa between 1884 and 1924.

1970sWestern scientists and doctors remain ignorant of the growing epidemic.

HIV probably enters the United States around 1970.

African doctors see a rise in opportunistic infections and wasting.

1981

“GRID”

AIDS is detected in California and New York.

The first cases are among gay men, initially naming the disease GRID (Gay Related Immune Deficiency).

1982

AIDS

The name “AIDS” is created (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome).

AIDS is reported among hemophiliacs and Haitians in the USA.

AIDS is reported in several European countries.

1983

AIDS is reported among non-drug using women and children.

Experts are more confident that the cause of AIDS is infectious.

3,000 AIDS cases have been reported in the USA . . .1,000 have died.

1984Ryan White diagnosed with AIDS and is banned from his school.

Scientists identify HIV as the cause of AIDS.

AIDS is widespread in parts of Africa.

1985 An HIV antibody test is licensed for screening blood supplies.

1985Rock Hudson dies of AIDS.

AIDS is found in China, and has therefore been seen in all regions of the world.

1986

More than 38,000 cases of AIDS have been

reported from 85 countries.

1987

Liberace dies of AIDS.

AZT is the first drug

approved for treating AIDS.

1988

Health ministers meet to discuss AIDS and establish a

World AIDS Day on December 1.

1988

Greg Louganis hits head in Olympic diving. In 1995, he would disclose he had HIV at the time of the accident.

1990Ryan White dies of AIDS.

8 million people worldwide are living with HIV.

1991

Magic Johnson discloses he has HIV.

1994

AIDS is the leading cause of death for all Americans aged 25-44.

AZT is shown to reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Infant HIV infections begin to fall in developed countries, due to use of AZT.

1996

“Cocktail”

treatments

Combination antiretroviral treatment is shown to be highly effective against HIV.

1997

Deaths

Infections

AIDS deaths begin to decline in developed countries, due to the new drugs.

22 million people worldwide are living with HIV.

1997Nearly 22 million people have become infected with HIV during the 11 years of tracking the disease.

2003

The first HIV vaccine to undergo a major trial is found to be ineffective.

AIDS drugs become more affordable for developing countries.

2006

Circumcision is shown to reduce HIV infection among

heterosexual men.

2006

The percentage of HIV infected people who are receiving treatment in developing countries…only 1 in 4.

28%

2007

33 million people worldwide are living with HIV.

Another major HIV vaccine trial is halted after preliminary results show no benefit.

2009

Travel

ban

lifted President Obama announces the removal of the travel ban that prevented HIV-positive people from entering the U.S.

2011

June 5, 1981

–

June 5, 2011

June 5 marks 30 years since the first case of AIDS was reported.

30 years

2012

HIV

Antibody

test

Ora-Quick approved by the FDA. The first rapid test using oral fluid that can be bought over the counter; results of which are obtained at home.

The FDA approves the use of Truvada for reducing the risk of HIV infection in uninfected persons at high risk. It is the first pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).

$13,900 per year

2012

PrEP