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Friends and Supporters of Pozhet This page aims to raise awareness and help to reduce stigma about HIV in the community. Show your support by liking and following this page.

A new drug could help the body fight HIVScientists are testing a new drug that could help the body's immune system find ...
17/10/2026

A new drug could help the body fight HIV
Scientists are testing a new drug that could help the body's immune system find HIV-infected cells. The research was presented at the International AIDS Conference 2026 in Rio de Janeiro. The drug is still being studied. It is not a new HIV treatment or cure, but it could be part of future HIV cure research.

HIV is good at hiding
Our immune system helps protect us from viruses. When a cell is infected with a virus, it shows a signal on its surface. This helps the immune system find the infected cell and destroy it. HIV has ways of hiding these signals. Two HIV genes, called nef and vpu, help HIV hide important proteins from the immune system, making it harder for the body's natural immune response to find HIV-infected cells.

A new way to help the immune system
Researchers are testing drugs called CD4 mimetics. These drugs act like a part of the body's cells called CD4s; they attach to HIV proteins and help open them up, making the HIV-infected cell easier for the immune system to identify. The researchers tested a drug called CJF-III-288. In laboratory tests, it helped antibodies recognise HIV-infected cells and helped immune cells remove some of these cells.

What did the researchers find?
The researchers found that: More antibodies were able to recognise HIV-infected cells.
Immune cells were better able to remove some HIV-infected cells. The results varied between the five participants who are living with HIV. Combining the drug with interferon-beta, an immune system signalling chemical, improved the response even more.

Is this a cure for HIV?
No. This is early research and the drug is not available as a HIV treatment. Scientists are looking at many different options for developing a HIV cure. This research could be one part of a future approach that helps the body's own immune system find and destroy HIV-infected cells. For people living with HIV today, effective HIV treatment continues to be the best way to manage HIV.

Why is this research important?
HIV can hide from the immune system, which makes it difficult for the body to completely clear the virus. Researchers are looking for ways to make HIV-infected cells easier for the immune system to recognise. This new research is an early step towards understanding whether medicines could help the body's own immune system respond to HIV more effectively. There is still a lot more research to do, but each new discovery helps scientists learn more about how HIV works and how a future cure might be possible.

Read more: https://www.aidsmap.com/news/aug-2026/new-class-drugs-could-sharpen-bodys-immune-response-hiv

Australia’s fight against HIV:We are making progress, but there is more to doAustralia has made great progress in preven...
15/10/2026

Australia’s fight against HIV:
We are making progress, but there is more to do
Australia has made great progress in preventing HIV and supporting people living with HIV.
New HIV diagnoses have fallen over time. Australia is also getting closer to the goal of eliminating HIV transmission as a public health issue.
But we are not there yet.
HIV treatment has changed
HIV treatment has improved a lot over the past few decades. Today, people living with HIV can take medication that keeps the virus at very low levels in the body. When someone takes their treatment as prescribed and has an undetectable viral load, they cannot pass HIV on through s*x; this is known as U=U (Undetectable = Untransmissible). People living with HIV who are on effective treatment can live long and healthy lives.
Prevention is also improving
There are now more ways to prevent HIV. PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is medication that can help prevent HIV. It is highly effective when taken as prescribed. HIV testing has also become easier, with options such as community testing and HIV self-tests helping people know their HIV status.

Stigma is still a problem
Even though living with HIV looks very different to previously, some people still have old ideas about HIV.
People living with HIV often experience HIV- related stigma and discrimination. This may prevent them from telling others they have HIV or getting tested, due to worry or fear. Everyone learning the facts about HIV can help reduce stigma. HIV is a health condition that can be treated. People living with HIV can have relationships, families and fulfil healthy and long lives.
Making sure everyone has access to information
Australia has made strong progress; however some communities can still face barriers to HIV testing, prevention and treatment. For example, people who migrate to Australia may experience additional barriers, including a lack of in-language health information or access to HIV testing and prevention support. Ensuring services are welcoming and culturally safe can help make sure everyone can access the care they need.
We still have work to do
Australia is close to an important milestone in the fight against HIV. But reaching the goal of eliminating HIV transmission will need continued effort. This includes making testing and prevention easier to access, providing culturally appropriate information and services, and an ongoing commitment to challenge HIV stigma and discrimination. Everyone should be able to access HIV information, testing, prevention and support, regardless of how they identify.
Read more: https://ow.ly/Krb850ZVEJr
https://ow.ly/knHx50ZVEJq

AUSTRALIA’S HIV RESPONSEProgress Has Been Made, But the Work ContinuesAustralia has made great progress in preventing an...
13/10/2026

AUSTRALIA’S HIV RESPONSE
Progress Has Been Made, But the Work Continues
Australia has made great progress in preventing and treating HIV. Today, HIV treatment helps people living with HIV live long and healthy lives. When HIV treatment keeps the virus at an undetectable level, HIV cannot be passed on through s*x. PrEP also gives people a safe and effective way to prevent HIV. Australia is now working towards ending HIV transmission by 2030. There have been many successes along the way, including better access to testing, treatment and PrEP. Community organisations and people living with HIV have played an instrumental role in these achievements.
There is still more to do
While Australia is making progress, HIV still exists. The number of new HIV diagnoses has fallen in some communities, however, this is not a consistent decline across all. People who have recently moved to Australia make up a growing number of new HIV diagnoses. Some people may come from places where HIV testing, PrEP and other s*xual health services are not accessible, due to cost or cultural norms. Creating health services in Australia, that are easy to access, welcoming and culturally safe can help people feel more comfortable getting tested, talking about HIV and accessing PrEP or treatment.
Community has always been important.
People living with HIV and community organisations have played a major role in Australia’s HIV response. In the early years of the HIV epidemic, people living with HIV came together to support each other, share information and speak up for better care. This community action helped shape Australia’s response to HIV. That work continues today. Community-led services, peer support, testing programs and health promotion all help make HIV services easier to access.
HIV care is changing
There are now more ways to access HIV testing and prevention. Free HIV testing kits are available through vending machines in every state and territory. Some services also offer rapid testing and PrEP in community settings. These services can make it easier for people to get the information, testing and care they need in a way that feels comfortable for them. PROVIDE LINK
The work continues
Australia has come a long way in the fight against HIV. But reaching the goal of ending HIV transmission will take continued effort. Everyone should be able to access HIV testing, prevention, treatment and support, regardless of their identity or cultural background. The progress we have made shows what is possible when communities, health services and governments work together. Continuing this work will help Australia move closer to ending HIV transmission.
Read the full ABC News article: https://ow.ly/RAzJ50ZVECy
https://ow.ly/C2Yq50ZVECz

WHAT IS EARLY HIV INFECTION?Early HIV infection is the time just after someone has been exposed to HIV. It is also calle...
11/10/2026

WHAT IS EARLY HIV INFECTION?
Early HIV infection is the time just after someone has been exposed to HIV. It is also called acute or primary HIV infection.
During this stage, HIV spreads quickly in the body. The immune system is still learning how to respond, so the virus can reach high levels in the blood.
Some people may feel unwell during this time, but others may have no symptoms at all.

What symptoms might occur?
When symptoms do happen, they can feel like a strong flu. This may include:
• fever
• sore throat
• swollen glands
• tiredness
• body aches
• rash
• mouth ulcers
These symptoms are sometimes called seroconversion illness. Seroconversion is when the body starts making antibodies to respond to HIV for the first time.
Not everyone experiences symptoms, so testing is the only way to know your HIV status.

Why early infection matters
During early infection:
• HIV levels in the body are very high
• the immune system is under pressure
• there is a higher chance of passing HIV on to others
This is why prevention methods like condoms or PrEP are important if there has been a recent exposure.

Testing for HIV after recent exposure
Different HIV tests work in different ways:
• Laboratory antigen/antibody tests are the most accurate for recent infection. They can usually detect HIV within a few weeks.
• Rapid tests and self-tests are quicker but may not detect very recent infection.
• If a test is taken too early, it may show a false negative, even if HIV is present.
If there is a recent possible exposure (within 72 hours), a doctor may also discuss PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis), which can help prevent HIV from taking hold.

Starting treatment early
If someone is diagnosed with HIV during early infection, they are usually offered HIV treatment (ART) straight away.
Starting treatment early can:
• protect the immune system
• reduce illness
• help the body recover faster
• lower the chance of passing HIV to others
Over time, effective treatment can reduce the virus to an undetectable level, which means it cannot be passed on s*xually.

Key Message
Early HIV infection is a time when the body is most affected by the virus, but it is also a time when early testing and treatment can make a big difference.
With the right care, people living with HIV can protect their health, start treatment early, and stay well long term.
For more information: aidsmap.com/about-hiv/early-hiv-infection
pozhet.org.au/hiv-prevention/testing-options/
https://pozhet.org.au/what-is-early-hiv-infection/

Did you know that different STI tests require different types of samples?For a routine STI check with no visible symptom...
25/09/2026

Did you know that different STI tests require different types of samples?
For a routine STI check with no visible symptoms, your health care provider will collect a few samples to test for common infections. These include chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, HIV and hepatitis B. They'll tailor the tests to your s*xual history.

Sexual health checks should always include blood tests for syphilis and HIV. Speak to your GP, Aboriginal Health Service, travel doctor, uni health service, online s*xual health provider, or a NSW Health Sexual Health Centre to book a s*xual health check today.

Testing and Support Options
• Local Clinics: Visit a s*xual health clinic or use the Play Safe STI Testing Locator to find a nearby clinic. https://playsafe.health.nsw.gov.au/sti-testing-locator/
• Phone Help: Call the confidential NSW Sexual Health Infolink at 1800 451 624 to talk to a nurse. https://www.seslhd.health.nsw.gov.au/nsw-s*xual-health-infolink
• Specialized Testing: Groups like a[TEST] provide fast, free rapid checks for men who have s*x with men.

Friends and Supporters of Pozhet
Friends and Supporters of Pozhet
Friends and Supporters of Pozhet https://pozhet.org.au/hiv-prevention/testing-options/

When you’re sick and unsure where to go, use Symptom Checker online for free, trusted health advice, anytime, anywhere.E...
20/09/2026

When you’re sick and unsure where to go, use Symptom Checker online for free, trusted health advice, anytime, anywhere.

Enter your symptoms into Symptom Checker to be connected to the care you need. This may include connecting you to a doctor online or helping you to find a nearby GP, pharmacist or urgent care service.

Check your symptoms: healthdirect.gov.au
Friends and Supporters of Pozhet

14/09/2026

Ever wondered if gay people are the only ones who get HIV?
Watch the latest video, get insight into people living with HIV and how they navigate their personal experience through laughter and understanding.

HIV is still often associated with stigma, particularly due to misconceptions about how it’s transmitted. Using humour to address these misconceptions can break down barriers and create space for open conversations.
Please visit Pozhet and view the complete series.
https://pozhet.org.au/hivstigmacampaign

Tips for Supporting Your Sexual Wellbeing.Sexual wellbeing is an important part of overall health. The World Health Orga...
13/09/2026

Tips for Supporting Your Sexual Wellbeing.
Sexual wellbeing is an important part of overall health. The World Health Organisation describes it as physical, emotional, mental, and social wellbeing in relation to s*xuality. It is about feeling safe, respected, and able to make choices that are right for you.

Looking after your general health can also support your s*xual wellbeing. Here are some simple ways to help support your body, mind, and relationships.

Take care of your overall health. Eating a balanced diet and staying active can improve energy, mood, and circulation. Regular movement and healthy food choices can also support confidence and reduce stress, which can positively affect s*xual wellbeing.
Look after your mental wellbeing. Stress can affect how you feel physically and emotionally. Finding ways to manage stress, such as exercise, mindfulness, or relaxation, can help support a more positive experience of intimacy and connection.
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol and drugs. Smoking and substance use can impact s*xual health and function over time. Reducing or avoiding these can help improve overall wellbeing and support better s*xual health outcomes.
Communicate and connect. Good communication with partners is important for healthy and respectful relationships. Talking openly about needs, boundaries, and comfort can help build trust and improve shared experiences.
Take care of your body. Some simple physical practices, like pelvic floor exercises (also called Kegel exercises), may help support bladder control and s*xual function for both men and women. Using condoms and personal lubricants can also help reduce discomfort and lower the risk of infections.
Seek support when needed. If you have concerns about your s*xual wellbeing, speaking with a doctor or health worker can help. Many s*xual health concerns are common and can be supported with treatment, advice, or simple changes.
Looking after your s*xual wellbeing is part of looking after your whole self.
Everyone deserves respectful, safe, and positive experiences.

Read more here: poz.com/slideshow/tips-for-improving-your-s*xual-health
https://pozhet.org.au/tips-for-supporting-your-s*xual-wellbeing/
Friends and Supporters of Pozhet

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