Scientists and other health advocates agree that development of a HIV/AIDS vaccine is possible to prevent or reduce the risk HIV infection. When such a vaccine is developed and available to all at risk of HIV/AIDS infection, it could make a major contribution to ending the global HIV/AIDS pandemic. However, for a vaccine to become a reality, active and broad-based community support and involvement are essential.

Major pharmaceutical companies, government agencies, and researchers are conducting HIV/AIDS vaccine research. In Kenya, the Kenya AIDS Vaccine

Initiative (KAVI) is taking the lead in the development of a safe and affordable vaccine. Currently KAVI is developing and conducting trials for an HIV/AIDS vaccine. Some possible vaccines are currently being tested in volunteers in Kenya, Uganda, UK and USA among other countries. Definitely more clinical trials will be needed before we have a safe, effective, preventive HIV/AIDS vaccine.

Why is community participation in HIV/AIDS vaccine development and trials critical? What is the role of the media?

Also In this issue... Editorial, Updates, Communicating HIV/AIDS Vaccine Information, Focus on Lugari development programme, Communicating HIV/AIDS Vaccine, Course Calendar, Why do we need HIV/AIDS Vaccine? and Publications/Conferences

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