U.N. AIDS agency tracks new HIV infections after U.S. aid freeze impacts treatment access

The U.N. AIDS agency is now tracking new HIV infections due to a freeze on foreign aid by the Trump administration. This disruption affects millions who rely on antiretroviral drugs to manage HIV, raising concerns about a potential resurgence of AIDS-related deaths. Without treatment, HIV can multiply rapidly, leading to drug resistance and increased risk of transmission. The immune system weakens, making individuals vulnerable to opportunistic diseases. The situation is particularly dire in countries like South Africa, which has high rates of HIV and tuberculosis. The aid freeze has resulted in layoffs of health workers in countries like Kenya and Ethiopia, creating gaps in HIV care and support. Experts warn that restoring aid and understanding the waiver for PEPFAR will take time, which many patients do not have.