Modern ART for South Africa

Maintaining an undetectable viral load through consistent treatment keeps you healthy and ensures you do not pass HIV to sexual partners.

• How do I know if my viral load is undetectable?

  The only way of knowing if your viral load is undetectable is by having a viral load test.

• Does having an undetectable viral load mean I am cured of HIV?

  No.

  An undetectable viral load means that the virus in your blood has reached only a very low level.

• If my viral load is undetectable, do I still have to take my ARVs?

  Yes!

  You must continue taking your ARVs in order to keep the virus suppressed.

• If my viral load is undetectable, do I still have to use protection during sex?

  Having an undetectable viral load eliminates the chances of the virus being passed sexually.

  If you maintain an undetectable viral load for at least six months, you have zero risk of sexually transmitting HIV. Remember that you need to keep taking ART!

• Why do I need to continue to take treatment, if my viral load is undetectable?

  You need to take your ARVs in order to keep the virus suppressed, otherwise you will get sick.

• If my viral load is undetectable, will it be that way forever?

  Your viral load will be undetectable for as long as you are taking your treatment properly.

• How can you tell if someone’s viral load is undetectable?

  There is no way of telling if a person’s viral load is undetectable other than by doing a viral load test.

• Is it possible for anyone to be undetectable, or does it depend on your ART combination?

  All ARVs can suppress the virus until it reaches undetectable levels.

  Anyone who is on ARVs and is taking them properly can have an undetectable viral load.

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