Why Addressing IFIs Is Important to Eliminating HIV

Nearly Half of HIV related deaths are caused by IFI

Fungi are one of the main causes of infections in people with weak immune systems, like those living with HIV. These infections are often mistaken for other illnesses because their symptoms can seem like a headache, muscle aches, joint pain, or itchy skin. This leads to misdiagnosis and underreporting of the infections. In places with limited resources, it’s even harder to get good diagnostics and treatment, and the rise of drug-resistant fungi makes it even more challenging to treat these infections. The high death rates from fungal infections among people living with HIV show why it's so important to act now. We need to improve how we track these infections, make better tools for diagnosing them, and develop new treatments. If we don't focus more on this issue and dedicate more resources to it, many lives will continue to be lost to conditions that could have been treated. Tech can play a pivotal role in combating IFIs by leveraging their skills in technology and innovation

The Silent Epidemic: The Need for a Stronger IFI Response

Join the Public Health Innovation Lab (PHiL) for Silent Epidemic: The Need for a Stronger IFI Response, an event focused on the urgent and often overlooked threat of invasive fungal infections (IFI). This silent yet pervasive health crisis affects millions worldwide, with limited awareness and resources dedicated to combating it. Experts will shed light on the impact of IFIs, discuss current gaps in response, and explore strategies for stronger global and local efforts. Be part of the conversation to raise awareness and drive meaningful change in the fight against this silent epidemic.

We will be joined by a panel of esteemed experts (bios below):

Tom Chiller, MD, MPHTM, Chief, Mycotic Disease Branch, CDC

Ambassador Eric Goosby, MD, Professor of Medicine, UCSF

Oddi Aasheim, BEng, Chair and Chief Strategy Officer, GAFFI