The first two official AIDS deaths in South Africa were recorded in 1982. This timeline tracks the course of the epidemic in South Africa from then until now.

HIV is one of the most closely studied viruses in history and yet it continues to outwit scientists in their efforts to find a cure or prevent the onset of AIDS.

At least 4.6 million South Africans are estimated to be living with HIV and by mid-2002 it is believed that 688 000 people had died of AIDS-related illnesses in South Africa.

World AIDS Day 2004 highlights the vulnerability of women and children to HIV. The theme resonates strongly with South Africans as we observe the annual 16 Days of Activism on Violence Against Women and Children. In this final instalment of our Living with AIDS feature for this year, we look at why it'€™s important to focus on these groups.