HIV Origins In Belgian Congo

In 2014, researchers analyzing old samples and records traced the main HIV pandemic back to King Leopold’s former Belgian Congo, centering on what is now Kinshasa in the early 20th century. Genetic evidence suggests the virus jumped from chimpanzees to humans as early as 1909, probably through the handling or butchering of bushmeat. Scientists believe the first person to be infected likely acquired the virus in the 1920s. From there, HIV spread silently for decades until doctors recognized AIDS in the late 20th century.

Previous Fact Next Fact