Global prize for SA HIV researcher

THE South African National

Aids Council (Sanac) yesterday congratulated Quarraisha Abdool Karim, who was recently awarded the prestigious Christophe Mérieux Prize for her work in HIV research.

According to the 50-year-old French foundation, Institut de France, the prize was established in 2007 and is awarded to researchers doing ground-breaking work in response to infectious diseases within a developing country.

Abdool Karim was due to be presented with her prize in Paris next week but the event was cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“As one of South Africa’s most esteemed scientists, Abdool Karim is the most deserving laureate of this significant prize as someone who has been at the forefront of HIV research,” said Sanac.

Abdool Karim also holds South Africa’s highest honour, the Order of Mapungubwe, awarded to her in 2013.

“Sanac hopes that this latest recognition on the global stage will continue to see her to do even more in HIV response.”