U=U

In the world of HIV and sexual health, there’s something called U=U, or Undetectable = Untransmissible. It means that if someone living with HIV keeps an undetectable viral load (UVL) for six months or more, they won’t pass the virus on during sex, even without using condoms.

• This is often talked about as “Undetectable Equals Untransmissible” or U=U. 
• U=U means a person living with HIV who has an undetectable viral load cannot pass on HIV to their sexual connections.
• U=U has been confirmed by all the available research on the topic over the past 15 years. 
• Major health organisations support U=U, including the World Health Organisation, UNAIDS, Australasian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexual Health Medicine (ASHM), Health Equity Matters, and the National Association of People Living with HIV Australia (NAPWHA).

U=U offers a clear path to reducing the risk of passing on HIV. It’s a positive step, a daily commitment to health, and a sign of progress in ending HIV transmission.

For HIV-negative folks:

U=U removes the risk of HIV transmission from people living with HIV who are on treatment and have an undetectable viral load.

For HIV-positive folks:

U=U is not just about preventing HIV transmission; it’s about making sure everyone can enjoy a full and healthy life, allowing your immune system to keep protecting you from everyday infections. While it doesn’t protect against other STIs, it’s a big step forward in HIV prevention. Keeping an undetectable viral load is as simple as taking your treatment and checking in with a specialist every few months. It’s not a cure, but it’s a great way for people living with HIV to live healthy lives.

Remember: U=U doesn’t protect you from other STIs, so make sure you’re using other methods of protection if you don’t know someone’s STI status.

Let’s stay informed and support each other in making choices that contribute to a healthier and safer future!