Researchers from North-West University have discovered traces of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) in several of South Africa’s water bodies, including rivers, dams, and even some treated tap water.
Published on July 13, 2025, the study found measurable amounts of ARVs such as lopinavir and efavirenz in water flowing downstream from wastewater treatment facilities. The findings have sparked concern about the possible effects on both public health and the environment.
South Africa’s large-scale HIV treatment rollout is believed to be a major source of these pharmaceutical residues entering the water system.
Scientists are now calling for enhanced wastewater treatment processes and more research to understand the long-term ecological risks associated with drug contamination in water.
