In Science, a publication of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, Dr. Robert Gallo of the U.S. National Cancer Institute reports that his lab has isolated the virus believed to cause AIDS. He calls it human T-cell lymphotropic virus type III (HTLV-III).
At the University of California, San Francisco, Dr. Jay A. Levy reports the isolation of a retrovirus from U.S. AIDS patients and healthy individuals in risk groups. He calls it the AIDS-associated virus (ARV).
Scientists conclude that AIDS is caused by a new retrovirus, which they later name human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Margaret Heckler predicts an AIDS vaccine will be ready for testing within two years.
Dr. Krim testifies before Congress on the need for AIDS research dollars and issues a plea for protecting the rights of people with AIDS.
Scientists isolate a virus that causes an AIDS-like illness in monkeys.
The AIDS Medical Foundation distributes its first 18 basic research grants.
U.S. YEAR-END STATISTICS
7,239 cases of AIDS reported to date
5,596 deaths
