Tracking HIV’s evolution: How studying the virus’s genetic material helps protect public health in the UK

Description of impact

This project uses genetic information from HIV viruses collected across the UK to
help protect and improve public health. By analysing the genetic “fingerprints” of HIV from thousands of people, scientists can track how the virus changes and spreads. The team identified a few rare types of HIV that seem to cause faster illness, but these are not spreading quickly or widely. Most importantly, the study found no evidence that these types are more resistant to current treatments. The findings show that while more aggressive forms of HIV can appear, they are not a major threat in the UK thanks to strong prevention and treatment programmes. The project is now developing new tools to monitor HIV in real time, helping public health teams respond quickly to changes. This work supports the UK’s goal to end new HIV transmissions by 2030 and highlights the importance of ongoing genetic surveillance.

Impact date	26 Aug 2025
Category of impact	Health impacts