Genetic and phylogenetic evolution of HIV-1 in a low subtype heterogeneity epidemic: the Italian example.

ABSTRACT: The Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1) is classified into genetic groups, subtypes and sub-subtypes which show a specific geographic distribution pattern. The HIV-1 epidemic in Italy, as in most of the Western Countries, has traditionally affected the Intra-venous drug user (IDU) and Homosexual (Homo) risk groups and has been sustained by the genetic B subtype. In the last years, however, the HIV-1 transmission rate among heterosexuals has dramatically increased, becoming the prevalent transmission route. In fact, while the traditional risk groups have high levels of knowledge and avoid high-risk practices, the heterosexuals do not sufficiently perceive the risk of HIV-1 infection. This misperception, linked to the growing number of immigrants from non-Western Countries, where non

SUBMITTER: Buonaguro L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC1892567 | biostudies-literature | 2007 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature