Tomorrow, Tuesday December 1, Zimbabwe joins the world in commemorating World Aids Day. Community Working Group on Health (CWGH) executive director Itai Rusike says with the COVID-19 pandemic affecting the country, there is a high possibility that HIV prevention and treatment could be disrupted. He speaks to NewsDay supplements editor and health journalist Phyllis Mbanje (ND). ND: Tell us about the World Aids Day which will be commemorated tomorrow. What exactly is it about? IR: Every year, on December 1, the world commemorates World Aids Day. The theme for this year is Global Solidarity, Shared Responsibility. On this day, the world unites to show support for people living with and affected by HIV, and to remember those who lost their lives to the epidemic. This year is another opportunity to demonstrate solidarity, realising that the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the provision of HIV services, treatment and care putting more people at risk, including those in Zimbabwe. ND: Are there any efforts that have been made towards prevention and treatment of HIV? IR: Numerous efforts, investments of resources as well as research and development have led to immense progress in prevention, treatment and care to defeat HIV. The recent study results showing the effectiveness of long-acting injectable medicines for preventing HIV among women; the positive opinion on the effectiveness of the Dapivirine vaginal ring to reduce the risk of HIV infection for women add to the progress made towards defeating the disease. According to UNAids, globally, increased access to HIV treatment has averted around 12,1 million Aids-related deaths since 2010. This victory calls for celebration as it has led to significant reduction of HIV transmission and related deaths. The progress, though remarkable, has been unequal, notably in expanding access to anti-retroviral therapy. ND: What has been the impact of COVID-19 on HIV patients? IR: Sadly, the COVID-19 pandemic is disrupting HIV prevention, treatment and care services as well as reversing gains made to defeat the disease. According to UNAids, a six-month complete disruption in HIV treatment could cause more than 500 000 additional deaths in Sub-Saharan Africa, which includes Zimbabwe over the next year (2020–2021), bringing the region back to 2008 HIV mortality levels. Adolescent girls and young women continue to face unacceptably high risks of HIV infection in high-burden countries. Data from UNAids shows that, every week, globally, around 5 500 young women aged 15–24 years become infected with HIV. During the COVID-19 pandemic, this has been exacerbated by lock downs and prolonged periods being out of school, which has led to early marriage, female genital mutilation, gender-based violence and reduced enrolment of girls in schools increasing their vulnerability. More than ever, there is need for urgent and relentless efforts by the governments, including the Zimbabwe government, donors, private sector, civil society and communities. This will help sustain efforts to defeat HIV and to mitig