Canada is grappling with a concerning rise in HIV infections, with new cases increasing by 23% between 2026 and 2026. This alarming trend is particularly evident in smaller communities that lack adequate healthcare infrastructure. Experts like Dr. Julio Montaner, executive director and physician-in-chief at the B.C. Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, are deeply worried about the future of HIV prevention and treatment in the country.
The recent data from the Public Health Agency of Canada highlights a 22.8% increase in new HIV infections, with an estimated 2,517 new cases in 2026 compared to 2,050 in 2026. This resurgence comes after significant progress, including British Columbia’s declaration of an end to the HIV epidemic in, when new AIDS cases had declined by 90%.
Regional Hotspots and Public Health Emergencies
Manitoba declared HIV a public health emergency in May, with infection rates 3.5 times higher than the national average. Saskatchewan followed closely, reporting the second-highest infection rates in Canada. These regional hotspots underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions and increased funding.
Dr. Montaner’s pioneering work in highly active antiretroviral therapy and the ‘treatment as prevention’ strategy has been instrumental in managing HIV. However, Canada has only achieved one of the three key targets set by the United Nations: 95% of people with HIV being diagnosed, on treatment, and having a suppressed viral load. This shortfall highlights the need for more effective strategies and increased investment in HIV prevention and treatment.
Global Funding Cuts and Their Impact
Global health leaders at the International AIDS Conference in Rio de Janeiro warned that funding cuts, particularly from the United States and other high-income countries, could unravel years of progress. In 2026, international funding for HIV testing and treatment initiatives in low- and middle-income nations plummeted by 18% according to UNAIDS.
Dr. Montaner emphasizes the importance of restoring funding for global initiatives and addressing the resurgence of HIV cases at home. He advocates for quarterly reporting on national HIV infections and ensuring that treatment is accessible to all. Antiretroviral drugs have advanced significantly, with lower costs and single daily pill options, as well as pre-exposure and post-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP and PEP) that significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission.
Changing Demographics and Access to Care
Jody Jollimore, executive director for the Canadian AIDS Treatment Information Exchange (CATIE), notes that the face of HIV is changing in Canada. Initially centered in big cities and primarily affecting gay men, HIV is now appearing in rural and remote communities with limited health infrastructure and resources. These communities often lack the necessary support and healthcare providers to address the growing issue.
Darryl Jordan, a harm-reduction navigator at the Persons Living with AIDS Network in Saskatoon, works to address barriers such as stigma, substance use, mental health, and poverty. His efforts include helping people get tested and connected to HIV treatment. Rapid HIV oral tests have made it easier for individuals to find out their status and access timely treatment.
The Public Health Agency of Canada estimates that 70,900 people are living with HIV in Canada. Over half identify as gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, while more than a quarter are female, and about 12.6% are people who have injected drugs. These demographics highlight the need for targeted interventions and increased funding to reach those most affected by HIV.
