Federal authorities are investigating new ways to test and monitor HIV infections.

A report from Monash University, commissioned by the federal Department of Health and Ageing, says changes are needed following increasing HIV infection rates in four states.

A breakdown of the figures indicated 70 percent of new infections were among gay men, and 20 percent were among heterosexuals; with the remaining 10 percent including intravenous drug users, and women transmitting the infection to children.

The Australian reports that in states like Victoria, the increase was predominately among gay men, especially those over 50.

‘Risky sexual behaviours’, within the gay community in both Victoria and Queensland were also on the rise.

The report also found that increases in recreational drug use; men finding sexual partners through the internet; and the number of men who did not know their HIV status, or how to reduce the risk of infection; were also contributing factors in the increase in infections.

The Monash report said action had to be taken to identify and report on ‘potential HIV clusters’.

David Wain, acting President of People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) Victoria, told SX he is not surprised by the report’s findings.

“All of the social factors around HIV transmission are complex; there is not one simple solution. That’s why there are so many people working in this area,” he explained.

He said PLWHA Victoria welcomed anything that recommends an increase in resources for HIV research.

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