Dr. Anthony Fauci, from the NIH, was disappointed, “Regrettably, this vaccine does not work.” However, “research continues on other approaches to a safe and effective HIV vaccine,” which Dr. Fauci still believes can be achieved. This follows his review of patients in the HVTN 702 trial who were still susceptible to HIV/AIDS despite being given the vaccine.

An effective HIV vaccine does not contain HIV nor pose any danger of giving HIV to its recipient.Alongside recent breakthroughs in anti-retroviral treatments that have improved the lifespan of people with HIV, a drug treatment called pre-exposure prophylaxis (Prep) seems effective in preventing HIV infection but, unlike a vaccine, it needs to be taken daily. In countries where such treatments may not be available, the only effective prevention remains using condoms during sexual intercourse or outright abstinence.

Debbie Laycock, Head of Policy at British charity Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) said, “Regular testing, condoms, Prep and effective treatment means people living with HIV can’t pass on the virus – it’s vital we seize this opportunity to end the HIV epidemic.”