Issue No. 29

AIDSinfo.nih.gov is pleased to provide you with a weekly update of highlights about what has happened in the world of HIV/AIDS treatment, prevention, and research. We hope you find this encapsulated view of HIV/AIDS news useful.

Microbicide Made From Seaweed May Protect Against HIV, HPV

A new article in the journal Public Library of Science Pathogens reports that a microbicide made from a seaweed extract called carrageenan may provide protection from human papillomavirus (HPV) in addition to protection from HIV. Although carrageenan’s effect on HPV was only evaluated in test tube experiments, researchers are excited to test the microbicide’s efficacy in humans in clinical research. Clinical trials testing carrageenan’s efficacy against HIV infection are already underway. You can read more about carageenan and HPV and can find detailed information about carageenan and HIV in AIDSinfo’s Drug Database.

Don’t Miss Mobilizing Against the HIV/AIDS Crisis Among African Americans

On November 16, 2006, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Public Health Training Network will broadcast via satellite and webcast, "Mobilizing Against the HIV/AIDS Crisis Among African Americans," at 1 p.m. EST. This 2-hour presentation is geared toward health care professionals and will highlight relevant research and related programs in the United States; a panel will answer viewer questions during and after the broadcast.

Check Out the AIDSinfo Travel Page

Preparing to travel can present challenges for even the most seasoned travelers. People living with HIV/AIDS face the additional tasks of protecting themselves from travel-related pathogens and adhering to anti-HIV treatment on an altered schedule. AIDSinfo has updated our HIV & Travel page. We hope this page will be useful in planning successful trips here in the United States and abroad. Bon Voyage!