Manitoba has officially declared a public health emergency as the province grapples with a concerning spike in HIV transmissions. The latest statistics reveal that certain regions are experiencing some of the highest infection rates in Canada, prompting an urgent call for action from health officials.
Escalating HIV Rates Demand Attention
Dr. Brent Roussin, Manitoba’s chief public health officer, addressed the media on Thursday, highlighting that the surge in HIV cases is primarily driven by injection drug use and unprotected sexual practices. The northern communities and the Prairie Mountain Health region are reporting particularly high rates, but the majority of new diagnoses are occurring in the Winnipeg area. Dr. Roussin noted that Indigenous populations are disproportionately impacted, reflecting a troubling trend that requires immediate intervention.
In 2025, Manitoba recorded 328 new HIV cases—a stark increase from just 90 cases in 2019. The provincial rate of 19.5 cases per 100,000 residents far exceeds the national average of 5.5 per 100,000. Although final figures for 2026 are pending, early data suggests that the province is on track to match last year’s alarming rate of approximately 120 new cases in the first quarter alone.
Context of the Health Emergency
Dr. Roussin emphasised the multifaceted crises contributing to the HIV surge, including homelessness, substance use, and socio-economic disparities that have intensified in recent years. He pointed out that the challenges faced by Indigenous communities are particularly acute, linking them to the lasting impacts of colonisation.
“The declaration of a health emergency will facilitate access to additional resources, including support from the federal government, to effectively tackle this issue,” Dr. Roussin stated. This is a significant move, as Manitoba has never previously declared a health emergency specifically for HIV.
Unique Trends in Manitoba’s HIV Cases
What sets Manitoba apart from national trends is the demographic profile of those affected. More than half of the new cases in the province involve women, contrasting with the national average of 32 per cent. Most newly diagnosed women are under 40, heightening the risk of perinatal HIV, which occurs when the virus is transmitted from parent to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. The province reported at least one perinatal case in 2025, following another in the previous year, with only one case recorded in 2021.
Dr. Roussin reiterated the need for increased awareness and access to prevention, testing, and harm reduction resources. The provincial government is actively working with Indigenous leaders and community groups to ensure that health messaging is culturally appropriate and effective.
Combating Stigma and Enhancing Treatment Access
Despite advancements in treatment options, such as antiretroviral therapy, many individuals living with HIV still face stigma that hampers their access to necessary support and care. Dr. Roussin noted that treatments remain significantly underutilised in Manitoba, underscoring the need for a comprehensive approach to destigmatise the disease and promote informed health choices.
“This emergency is not about instilling fear,” he clarified. “It’s about recognising the realities that individuals and communities are confronting, and addressing these challenges with urgency.”
Why it Matters
The declaration of a public health emergency in Manitoba is a critical turning point in the fight against HIV. By acknowledging the severity of the situation, the province is taking necessary steps to mobilise resources and support for those affected. This proactive approach is essential not only for addressing immediate health concerns but also for fostering a more informed and compassionate community response. The implications of this emergency extend beyond health statistics; they touch upon the well-being of vulnerable populations and the need for equitable access to healthcare resources across Manitoba.