Manitoba has officially declared a public health emergency in response to a significant surge in HIV infections throughout the province. Recent statistics reveal that several areas are now grappling with some of the highest rates of the virus in Canada, prompting urgent action from health authorities. Dr. Brent Roussin, the province’s chief public health officer, attributes this troubling trend primarily to factors such as injection drug use and unprotected heterosexual intercourse.
Rising Infection Rates
The situation in Manitoba has deteriorated markedly, with new HIV diagnoses skyrocketing from 90 in 2019 to 328 in 2025. This pattern indicates a disturbing increase over recent years. In 2024, the province reported an incidence rate of 19.5 cases per 100,000 residents, starkly contrasting with the national average of just 5.5 cases per 100,000. The Winnipeg area has recorded the highest number of cases, although northern communities and the Prairie Mountain Health region also display elevated rates.
Dr. Roussin highlighted that the Indigenous population is disproportionately affected, linking the crisis to broader issues of homelessness, substance abuse, and socio-economic disparities—challenges that have intensified due to the lingering impacts of colonisation.
A Call for Coordinated Action
During a press briefing at the Manitoba legislature, Dr. Roussin stressed the need for a unified response from various sectors, including government, local communities, and healthcare systems. He noted that the alarming rise in cases requires immediate and comprehensive action, stating, “This is significant, it’s concerning, and it requires a coordinated action across governments, communities and health systems.” This marks the first time Manitoba has declared a health emergency specifically for HIV.
As part of this new initiative, the province aims to secure additional resources to combat the spread of the virus, including potential federal support.
Understanding Local Trends
Health officials are observing that the risk factors associated with HIV in Manitoba differ from national trends. Notably, over half of the reported cases involve women—more than double the national average of 32%. Many of these newly diagnosed women are under the age of 40, raising concerns about perinatal HIV transmission, which occurs when the virus is transferred from parent to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. In 2025, at least one case of perinatal HIV was reported, alongside another the previous year, highlighting a worrying trend.
Dr. Roussin underscored the importance of increasing awareness and access to prevention, testing, and harm reduction services, particularly in collaboration with Indigenous leaders and community organisations to ensure culturally relevant messaging.
Overcoming Stigma and Barriers to Treatment
Despite advancements in treatment options, including antiretroviral therapy, stigma surrounding HIV continues to hinder access to vital healthcare services in Manitoba. Dr. Roussin pointed out that misinformation and societal attitudes create barriers, resulting in underutilisation of available treatments. “This emergency, it’s not about creating fear. It’s about acknowledging the reality that individuals and communities are facing right now and to address that with a level of urgency,” he remarked.
Why it Matters
The declaration of a public health emergency in Manitoba is a critical step towards addressing an escalating health crisis. By recognising the urgent need for action and collaboration, authorities can mobilise resources and support to combat the rising rates of HIV, particularly among vulnerable populations. This situation serves as a stark reminder of the intersectionality of health, social issues, and community resilience, emphasising the need for comprehensive strategies to promote health equity and prevent further infections in the province.