Today is HIV Vaccine Awareness Day, also called World AIDS Vaccine Day. It was first observed in 1998 and served to raise awareness of the need for HIV vaccines and educate people about how HIV can be prevented. It is also an opportunity to recognize scientists, health professionals, volunteers, and community members working to find a safe and effective vaccine to prevent HIV.

Recently, this year, we've seen significant progress in HIV vaccine research. Initial results from clinical trials using an mRNA platform technology were presented; the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI) and partners showed preliminary data on immune responses and safety from the G002 and G003 studies (https://www.iavi.org/iavi-report/dont-stop-believin-this-years-hiv-vaccine-research-theme/), highlighting its challenges but also its potential. As the trial will conclude in the first semester of 2024, the authors mentioned that follow-on efficacy trials will depend on the final immunogenicity results.

Other clinical trials are ongoing using various technologies in different settings, demonstrating the global commitment to advancing the HIV vaccine portfolio with diverse approaches. This united effort is a testament to our shared goal of overcoming HIV. ISID joins this commemoration and the global efforts to strengthen the HIV vaccine pipeline and overcome its challenges.