In a significant public health intervention, Manitoba has officially declared a public health emergency following a troubling surge in HIV infections across the province. The declaration, made on Thursday, highlights the urgent need for coordinated efforts to combat a crisis that has seen certain regions, particularly in the north and the Prairie Mountain Health area, reporting some of the highest rates of HIV in Canada. Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Brent Roussin attributed this alarming trend primarily to the dual challenges of injection drug use and unprotected sexual activities.
Sharp Increase in HIV Infections
The data reveals a stark increase in new HIV cases in Manitoba, rising from just 90 in 2019 to a staggering 328 in 2025. This surge is part of a broader, steady upward trajectory in infections over the past few years. According to reports, the province has a rate of 19.5 infections per 100,000 residents, a figure that significantly surpasses the national average of 5.5 per 100,000.
While the year-to-date statistics for 2026 are still pending finalisation, preliminary numbers indicate that the first quarter is mirroring the previous year’s concerning rise, with approximately 120 new cases recorded between January and April. Dr. Roussin emphasised the significance of this development, stating, “This is significant, it’s concerning, and it requires a coordinated action across governments, communities and health systems.”
Disproportionate Impact on Indigenous Communities
Dr. Roussin highlighted that Indigenous populations are disproportionately affected by this rise in cases. He linked the increased vulnerability to a combination of factors rooted in the ongoing effects of colonisation, which have perpetuated socioeconomic inequalities and crises related to homelessness and substance abuse.
The chief public health officer noted that over half of the new HIV cases in the province involve women, a stark contrast to the national figure of 32 per cent. Most of these cases are among women under the age of 40, heightening the risk of perinatal HIV transmission—where the virus can be passed from mother to child during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Manitoba reported at least one case of perinatal HIV in 2025, along with another from the previous year.
Strategic Response and Collaboration
In light of the emergency declaration, Manitoba aims to enhance its response to the rising infection rates. Dr. Roussin mentioned that the status will facilitate access to additional resources, including federal support to bolster prevention and treatment efforts.
“We want to increase awareness, improve access to prevention, testing, and harm reduction,” he said, underscoring the importance of community collaboration. The provincial government is working closely with Indigenous leaders and community organisers to ensure that messaging around HIV is culturally appropriate and effective.
Despite the availability of effective treatments through antiretroviral therapy, stigma surrounding HIV remains a significant barrier to care. Dr. Roussin pointed out that treatment resources are not being fully utilised in Manitoba, raising concerns about misinformation and the public’s perception of the disease.
Why it Matters
The declaration of a public health emergency in Manitoba serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by HIV, particularly in vulnerable populations. It underscores the urgent need for a multifaceted approach that addresses not only the medical aspects of the disease but also the social determinants that contribute to its spread. By fostering collaboration among health officials, community leaders, and the government, Manitoba aims to create a more supportive environment for those affected, ultimately working towards reducing transmission rates and improving health outcomes for all citizens.
