Blood borne viruses

Infectious diseases are still major causes of deaths and illnesses worldwide. In our Blood Borne viruses programme we have focussed on hepatitis C virus (HCV) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). These are the blood borne viruses with the greatest global burden of deaths and illness.

Our studies are in line with the strategic priorities of the World Health Organization. Our results change guidelines, policy and practice across the age range. Most of our infection trials involve collaborations with partners and networks worldwide.

We pursue collaborations which have high global impact and in which we can shape the science now and in the future, drive the research agenda, and play a key role in the research trial design, conduct and analysis. Examples of the impact of our research include: 1. license approval of new antiretroviral treatments for children with HIV, with resulting improved outcomes

2. a package of affordable anti-infective medicines, which reduces mortality in those presenting with AIDS 3. preventing HIV infection by taking just one antiretroviral pill a day. Together these trials contribute to the WHO targets of eliminating AIDS globally.