Undetectable

A viral load so low that HIV cannot be detected in a person's blood test. "Undetectable" is the result of effective HIV treatment (antiretroviral therapy, or ART).

An undetectable viral load means the immune system is protected and the person is healthy. It also means they cannot transmit HIV to sexual partners — this is the scientific basis of the U=U campaign.

Being undetectable takes time: most people reach it within 3 to 6 months of starting treatment. It requires taking ART consistently and getting regular viral load tests. Being undetectable does not cure HIV, but it makes HIV manageable and non-transmissible.