There Are Some Humans Who Naturally Resist HIV – Medical Expert Discloses
By: Israel Adeleke
A medical practitioner, Dr. Iyayi Osifo, has revealed that there are certain individuals that possess a rare genetic mutation that renders them naturally resistant to HIV infection.
OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports that the expert who disclosed this in a recent post shared across his social media platforms, explained that these individuals could, in theory, engage in unprotected sex with an HIV-positive partner and still avoid infection, as a result of this unique genetic trait.
According to Dr. Osifo, the resistance is linked to a mutation that affects the CCR5 receptor, a component of white blood cells that HIV typically uses as a gateway to infiltrate the body’s immune system.
"People with this mutation don’t have the CCR5 receptor, so HIV has a harder time infecting them," he said.
Furthermore, the doctor noted that this genetic mutation is most frequently found in individuals of Northern European descent but has also been identified, though less commonly, among people in Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya.
Despite the breakthrough, Dr. Osifo cautioned against complacency. "This natural protection is rare and should not be used as an excuse for risky behaviour," he warned.
He emphasized the continued importance of knowing one’s HIV status, practicing safe sex, and utilizing proven preventive measures.
Addressing those currently living with HIV, Dr. Osifo offered reassurance. “If you start treatment early and stick to it, you can live a normal life,” he stated, noting that with modern antiretroviral therapy, individuals can live long, healthy lives and often die from causes unrelated to HIV.
He stressed that while the existence of natural HIV resistance offers exciting insight into the complexities of human genetics and immunity, it is not a substitute for scientifically proven methods of protection.
OTN News observes that Dr. Osifo’s comments come amid growing concern over global HIV treatment efforts, where former U.S. President Donald Trump recently withdrew financial support from international programmes aimed at subsidizing antiretroviral drugs for people living with HIV/AIDS.
It could be further recalls that the move had sparked criticism from health advocates who fear it may undermine efforts to control the spread of the virus in vulnerable regions.
Dr. Osifo, however, concluded his message with a call for continued vigilance, warning that relying on a rare genetic trait is dangerous, that the safest path is always prevention and early treatment.
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