Treatment is prevention

U=U

Undetectable = Untransmittable. A person on effective HIV treatment cannot pass HIV on to sexual partners.

Animated illustration: U equals U, undetectable equals untransmittable

What it is

Treatment that stops transmission

U=U stands for Undetectable = Untransmittable. A person living with HIV who takes treatment as prescribed and reaches an undetectable viral load cannot transmit HIV to sexual partners. It is one of the most powerful facts in HIV prevention, treatment is prevention.

Young people engaging at a community HIV dialogue

How it works

Three simple steps

1

Start treatment

A person diagnosed with HIV begins antiretroviral treatment (ART).

2

Reach undetectable

Taking treatment as prescribed lowers the virus to an undetectable level.

3

Stay undetectable

Staying on treatment keeps the viral load undetectable, and untransmittable.

Good to know

The essentials

Undetectable means HIV cannot be passed on to sexual partners.
Requires taking HIV treatment consistently as prescribed.
Affirms that people living with HIV live full, healthy lives, and helps end stigma.
Treatment is prevention, for the individual and for the community.

U=U applies to sexual transmission when viral load is confirmed undetectable. A provider monitors viral load through regular testing.