Can HIV and Hepatitis C Virus Infection be Eliminated Among Persons Who Inject Drugs?

Abstract

HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection are readily transmitted among persons who inject drugs. The HIV and HCV epidemics have expanded rapidly, becoming global health issues. Combined prevention has been implemented to reduce injection and sexual transmission of HIV and HCV among persons who inject drugs. Reductions in risky injection and sexual behavior have led to dramatic reductions in HIV in many countries. Whether comparable reductions in HCV transmission can be achieved has yet to be determined. Eliminating HIV and HCV among persons who inject drugs will require considerable resources and commitment, particularly in low and middle income countries.

KEYWORDS:

• HIV
• hepatitis C virus
• drug injection
• combined prevention
• persons who inject drugs

FUNDING

This work was supported by the National Institute of Health grants P30 DA 011041, R01 DA020841, and 5R01DA003574. The conclusions in the article are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the National Institute on Drug Abuse or the National Institute of Health.