Lots has changed! We still take HIV seriously, but so much has happened since HIV first appeared. Medicine and society are catching up with the virus that changed everything.

When HIV and AIDS first appeared in the 80s, they were a total mystery. Researchers and doctors scrambled to figure out how the virus was passed between people, and what could be done to treat it. Amidst the panic, we learned about how the virus works, how it could lead to AIDS, how to test for it, and how to treat it. After years of incredible loss and human resilience, effective anti-retroviral therapies (ARTs) emerged in the mid-90’s. These medications stop the virus at multiple steps during its copying process. Scientists have been improving these medicines for almost three decades with better efficacy and far fewer side effects.

Considering everything that’s happened in the world, and to our communities as a result of HIV and AIDS, it might be hard to shift your perspective, but things really have changed. It’s definitely not the 80’s or early 90’s anymore.

Every province and territory in Canada has a different way of helping people who need HIV care. In general, these programs will offer coverage for people on social assistance and for seniors. Others will offer coverage to people with no insurance. Everyone’s situation is unique, and these programs can be tough to understand. Many Anti-retroviral drugs are covered by MSI. We recommend working with your doctor to figure out what treatment option works for you.

If you’re having a hard time with getting access to your meds, HIV/AIDS Service Organizations (like us at HEAL NS!) can help you sort through your options.