Approximately 2,300 new HIV diagnoses were reported in 2024, and an estimated 7,000 people living with HIV are unaware of their status. Knowing one's HIV status is the first step to prevention, treatment, and care - and with treatment, people with HIV can live long, healthy lives.
Today, on behalf of the Honourable Marjorie Michel, Minister of Health, Doug Eyolfson, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg West, alongside the Chief Public Health Officer of Canada, Dr. Joss Reimer, announced a $5 million investment to improve HIV prevention and support services. This funding will increase access to HIV self-test kits and support the hiring of peer-based support workers for populations facing the highest burdens of HIV and barriers to care across the country.
Through enhanced community-based outreach and support, this investment will help community-based organisations reach people who are unaware of their HIV status and connect them to care and other services. It will expand low-barrier testing options; promote earlier diagnosis; facilitate peer-based support for testing, treatment and prevention; and, support Canada's progress towards global HIV targets.
Reaching people who are undiagnosed is the first step in connecting them to HIV treatment and supporting them to achieve and maintain an undetectable viral load, which prevents sexual transmission of HIV. This year, Canada marks a decade of advancing HIV prevention, treatment, and stigma reduction through our continued endorsement of the Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U) campaign.
