U.S. researchers are reporting possible breakthroughs against HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, at the Annual Retrovirus Conference in Seattle, Washington.

An experimental vaccine by the pharmaceutical company Merck seems highly effective in monkeys and could soon be tested on humans. Short of stopping infection, researchers believe it could fortify the body's immune system to hold the virus in check for many years.

Meanwhile, new drugs known as "entry inhibitors" are showing promise at dealing with the problem of HIV drug resistance.

More than 90 potential AIDS vaccines are in various stages of trial.

The worldwide epidemic has already killed 20 million people and infected 40 million more. Most effective drugs remain too expensive for the world's worst affected communities.

Email this article to a friend
Printer Friendly Version