SA preliminary Aids vaccine results released

South Africa is at the forefront globally in the development of a HIV vaccine. Indications are that vaccine trials tailored for global strains had effect against the strain of the virus most prevalent in this country.

Scientists released preliminary results in Johannesburg today. A locally initiated vaccine called Phambili is being tested on human beings. Nearly 700 people have enrolled, however 2 000 volunteers are still needed. Volunteers do not have to worry about getting infected.

“You can never get HIV from a vaccine. There is no live virus. It is genetically manufactured in a laboratory,” said Dr Glenda Gray, of the Perinatal HIV Research Unit.

If Phambili shows good results, it will be next to be tested on a global scale. Two internationally tested vaccines have failed. Only one is being tested in Thailand at the moment. Another vaccine initiated abroad is showing positive results, with 74% Americans and 68% South Africans showing immune response to the vaccine.

Scientists say it looks like there will never be a 100% preventative vaccine but hopefully a vaccine which slows down the disease.