Several prevalence studies have been conducted, including hepatitis B and C virus, herpesviruses, and the curable STIs. Antimicrobial resistance is emerging globally and constitutes an important focus area in Anova’s research agenda. There are currently studies underway that assess prevalence and mechanisms of resistance of HIV (both at baseline and under treatment), Mycobacterium tuberculosis (mechanisms of action of three reserved drugs for treatment of TB), Neisseria gonorrhoea in men and Mycoplasma genitalium in diverse populations across South Africa.
Another flagship project focuses on ophthalmic complications of HIV-infection and ART where both the direct effects of the HIV virus on the eye as well as the occurrence and manifestations of ocular conditions (keratitis, uveitis) due to increased susceptibility are evaluated.
A third research line focuses on the complications of antiretroviral therapy and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and includes safety studies of PrEP use by MSM and documentation of side-effects of ART in children. Several of Anova’s research projects have also looked at mental health aspects of HIV care over time.