29.10.2026 21:45
The data disclosed regarding HIV infection in Russia have brought the scale of the epidemic across the country back onto the agenda. While experts draw attention to the fact that in 27 regions the virus has moved beyond high-risk groups and become widespread among the general population as well, it is stated that tens of thousands of people lose their lives every year due to HIV-related causes. As new cases and the need for treatment increase, the drug support planned to be allocated in the 2027 budget has also become a matter of debate.
Data disclosed on the spread of HIV infection in Russia has raised concerns. According to experts at Rospotrebnadzor, Russia’s Consumer Health Supervision Agency, the epidemic in the country has reached a stage in 27 regions where it also affects the general population. Experts draw attention in particular to the fact that in some regions the HIV positivity rate among pregnant women exceeds 1%, and the infection rate among men in the 40–49 age group exceeds 3%.
IN 27 REGIONS, THE EPIDEMIC HAS SPREAD TO THE GENERAL POPULATION
According to statements by Vasiliy Akimkin, Director of the Rospotrebnadzor Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, in 27 regions of Russia the HIV epidemic has moved beyond being limited to high-risk groups and reached a stage where it spreads to the general population. One of the important indicators used in this classification is that the HIV positivity rate among pregnant women exceeds 1%. This rate does not mean that more than 1% of the population living in those regions carries HIV.
THE RATE AMONG MEN AGED 40–49 EXCEEDED 3%
According to data reported by expert Natalya Ladnaya, more than 3% of men in the 40–49 age group in Russia are living with HIV. Kemerovo, Irkutsk and Sverdlovsk stand out among the regions where the infection is seen intensively.
The age distribution of HIV cases is also changing. It is stated that the average age of people carrying the infection has risen from 32 to 44 over the past 15 years. It is also stated that approximately two-thirds of new transmissions occur through heterosexual sexual contact.
MORE THAN 30,000 PEOPLE DIE EVERY YEAR
According to experts’ data, the annual number of HIV-related deaths in Russia varies between approximately 30,000 and 34,000. On the other hand, although the number of newly diagnosed cases has recently declined, the overall burden of the infection in the country remains significant.
In 2025, more than 45,000 new HIV cases were recorded in Russia. This figure was around 52,000 in 2024. Experts point out that the decline in new diagnoses alone does not show that the total number of people living with HIV has also decreased.
HYGIENE VIOLATIONS IN HEALTHCARE INSTITUTIONS ARE ON THE AGENDA
Concerns about infections transmitted in healthcare institutions in Russia have also increased. Rospotrebnadzor officials reported that in 2025, the highest number of blood-borne infections during healthcare services in the last 15 years was recorded.
The statements noted that failure to comply with hygiene and infection control rules was a factor in some cases. Practices such as using the same catheter or blood glucose meter for multiple patients were cited among the violations that pose a risk. The authorities stated that investigations into infection clusters detected in various regions are continuing.
ADDITIONAL MEDICINE SUPPORT FOR 30,000 PATIENTS IN THE 2027 BUDGET
Russia’s 2027 draft budget envisages additional medicine support for 30,000 people living with HIV. According to Health Minister Mikhail Murashko, the aim is for more patients to access treatment through budget resources.
However, this number is not the same as the total number of patients expected to be diagnosed that year. In 2025 alone, more than 45,000 new cases were recorded. Experts also note that the fact that the viral load is suppressed in only about half of people living with HIV reveals problems with access to treatment and continuity of treatment.