In a striking response to a dramatic rise in HIV infections, Manitoba has declared a public health emergency. This decision comes in light of alarming statistics indicating that certain regions within the province are now experiencing some of the highest rates of HIV transmission across Canada. With Indigenous communities bearing the brunt of this growing crisis, the situation has prompted urgent calls for coordinated intervention from government agencies, health systems, and local organisations.
Rising HIV Cases in Manitoba
The statistics are sobering: new HIV diagnoses in Manitoba soared to 328 in 2025, a staggering increase from just 90 cases in 2019. This uptick represents a consistent rise over recent years, with the province recording an incidence rate of 19.5 cases per 100,000 people in 2024—far exceeding the national average of 5.5 per 100,000.
Dr. Brent Roussin, Manitoba’s chief public health officer, highlighted that the primary drivers of this surge are linked to injection drug use and unprotected heterosexual intercourse. Northern communities and the southwestern Prairie Mountain Health region have been particularly hard hit, though the majority of new cases are reported in the Winnipeg area.
A Focus on Indigenous Communities
Dr. Roussin remarked on the disproportionate impact of HIV on Indigenous peoples in Manitoba, attributing it to the cascading effects of historical colonisation and ongoing socioeconomic disparities. He emphasised that the rising rates are intertwined with crises of homelessness, substance use, and systemic inequality, which have only intensified in recent years.
“This emergency declaration will enable us to mobilise additional resources, including support from the federal government, to help curb the spread of this disease,” Dr. Roussin explained. The declaration is unprecedented, marking the first time Manitoba has officially recognised a health emergency specific to HIV.
Understanding Unique Risk Factors
The risk factors for HIV transmission in Manitoba differ notably from national trends. Over 50 per cent of new cases involve women, a stark contrast to the national figure of 32 per cent. Many of these newly diagnosed women are under 40 years old, raising concerns about the potential for perinatal HIV cases, where the virus is transmitted from parent to child during pregnancy or breastfeeding. In 2025, at least one perinatal case was recorded, following another in the previous year, highlighting a worrying trend that demands immediate attention.
Dr. Roussin reiterated the need for heightened awareness and improved access to prevention, testing, and harm reduction initiatives. In collaboration with Indigenous leaders and community advocates, the provincial government aims to deliver culturally sensitive messaging and support.
Tackling Stigma and Improving Access to Treatment
Despite advances in treatment, including effective antiretroviral therapy, stigma surrounding HIV remains a significant barrier to accessing necessary healthcare. Dr. Roussin pointed out that many individuals in Manitoba are not benefiting from available treatments, which could help mitigate the virus’s spread.
“This emergency is not intended to instil fear but to bring to light the urgent realities faced by individuals and communities,” he stated. “We must respond with the seriousness this situation warrants.”
Why it Matters
The declaration of a public health emergency in Manitoba is a critical step towards addressing a burgeoning crisis that disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, particularly Indigenous communities. By acknowledging the multifaceted nature of this issue, including the intersection of health, social justice, and historical context, Manitoba is not only aiming to stem the tide of HIV infections but also to foster a more inclusive approach to public health. The urgency of this response is a call to action for all stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaborative efforts, ensuring that no community is left behind in the fight against HIV.
