Ireland reported the second highest rate of HIV diagnoses in the EU in 2024, according to report by the ECDC and the WHO Regional Office for Europe.  

Of the 1008 new cases reported in Ireland, more than 50% were transmitted via heterosexual sex, and 10% via mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding.

The All Ireland Science Media Centre asked local experts to comment.

Dr John Gilmore, Assistant Professor in Nursing, University College Dublin, comments:

“Ongoing rising rates in HIV transmission are deeply concerning, particularly at a time when we are closer than ever to being able to end new transmissions.

“Advances in treatment mean that people living with HIV who are on effective therapy cannot pass on the virus, and new prevention technologies such as HIV PrEP have transformed what is possible. Yet global setbacks, including cuts to global public health programmes and persistent inequities in access to medicines worldwide, continue to undermine progress globally.

“In Ireland, the rise in reported diagnoses highlights a clear need to strengthen our national response. Stigma remains one of the most persistent barriers to HIV prevention, and fear of judgement continues to deter many people from seeking testing or care. Public initiatives such as the HSE’s HIV and Me campaign, delivered in partnership with the community organisation Poz Vibes Tribe, represents important progress in increasing visibility, promoting accurate information and challenging misconceptions around HIV.

“These efforts must be accompanied by meaningful and sustained investment in free, accessible and community-centred sexual health services; including expanding access to HIV PrEP. Although capacity has increased in recent years, significant gaps remain. Many people who wish to start PrEP still face long waiting times and these delays disproportionately affect those at highest risk.

“Greater support is also needed for the communities most affected by HIV. Experiences of racism among new migrants, and homophobia and transphobia directed at LGBTQ+ people, continue to shape people’s willingness to test, access services and remain engaged in care. Addressing these inequities requires targeted investment in community organisations that are trusted by the people they serve, and play a vital role in reducing stigma, improving access and supporting individuals across HIV prevention and care.

“Ireland has the potential to be a leader in HIV prevention, but achieving this requires increased support for global public health efforts, deeper collaboration with the communities most affected, and increased sustained investment in sexual health services.”

Conflict of interest statement: No conflicts of interest to declare