Study find HIV progress in Kwazulu-Natal has stalled
A long-term study reveals that while HIV infection rates in rural KwaZulu-Natal dropped significantly between 2010 and 2018, progress has stalled since 2019. Researchers emphasize the need for updated prevention and treatment strategies to regain control.
Why it matters
The findings indicate a critical turning point in public health efforts, suggesting that current HIV intervention models may need adjustment to remain effective.
Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation Stellenbosch University October 12, 2026 News desk
One of the world’s largest ongoing population-based HIV studies shows major declines in new infections over two decades. But from 2019, progress has stalled – and in some cases begun to reverse. A new study identifies where renewed action could help South Africa regain momentum towards epidemic control.
South Africa’s HIV response has transformed the course of the epidemic over the past two decades, with expanded treatment and prevention contributing to substantial declines in new infections and improvements in survival.
Now, this long-running population-based HIV cohort is providing a detailed picture of that progress – and showing where the next phase of the response needs to focus.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in