Singapore recorded 166 new HIV cases among citizens and permanent residents in 2025, marking a slight increase from the 151 cases reported in 2024. Despite the rise, health authorities said the overall long-term trend remains encouraging, with annual HIV infections steadily declining over the past decade.
According to the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA), yearly HIV cases previously ranged between 300 and 500 from 2009 to 2019 before dropping significantly in recent years. Since 2024, the yearly figure has remained below 200.
Officials, however, warned that the latest increase serves as a reminder that HIV remains a public health concern in Singapore.
Minister of State for Health Rahayu Mahzam addressed the issue during a sexually transmitted infections congress on 23 May, saying the country “cannot rest on its laurels” even though overall infection numbers are lower than previous years.
More Than Half Of New HIV Cases Were Late-Stage Diagnoses
One of the biggest concerns highlighted by the CDA was the high number of late-stage HIV infections detected in 2025.
Out of the 166 newly diagnosed cases, 92 individuals — or 55.4 per cent — were already at a late stage of infection when diagnosed. This was slightly higher than in 2024, when 51.7 per cent of newly diagnosed patients were found at the late stage.
Health authorities noted that more than 65 per cent of new HIV cases were discovered during the course of medical care rather than through voluntary testing. Many of these individuals reportedly sought medical attention only after symptoms had already developed.
The agency stressed that self-initiated HIV screening often leads to earlier detection, which greatly improves treatment outcomes and reduces the risk of transmission.
Sexual transmission continued to account for the vast majority of infections, making up 97 per cent of all reported cases in 2025. Men who have sex with men represented the largest proportion at 56.6 per cent, while heterosexual transmission accounted for 32.5 per cent. Another 7.8 per cent involved bisexual men.
Singapore Encourages HIV Testing For All Adults
The CDA is now encouraging every adult in Singapore to undergo HIV testing at least once in their lifetime, regardless of whether they consider themselves at risk.
Individuals engaging in higher-risk sexual behaviour were also advised to get tested every three to six months.
Authorities emphasised that modern HIV treatment is highly effective when started early. Patients who maintain an undetectable viral load for at least six months through regular medication are considered unable to transmit the virus to their sexual partners.
To improve accessibility, HIV self-testing kits have been available at selected pharmacies nationwide since 2025.
Singapore has also made progress towards the global UNAIDS “95-95-95” targets aimed at controlling HIV transmission. The CDA said nearly 90 per cent of people living with HIV in Singapore are aware of their diagnosis, while around 96 per cent of diagnosed patients are receiving treatment. Of those on treatment, almost 94 per cent have achieved viral suppression.
MediSave Support For HIV Treatment To Increase From June 2026
The Ministry of Health will also introduce stronger financial support measures for HIV patients from 1 June 2026.
The monthly MediSave withdrawal limit for HIV medication will increase from S$550 to S$850, helping patients better manage long-term treatment expenses. Family members will also be allowed to use their MediSave accounts to support loved ones receiving HIV treatment.
Rahayu said these measures aim to reduce financial barriers and ensure patients can continue receiving life-saving antiretroviral therapy consistently.
Health experts continue to stress that early testing remains one of the most effective tools in reducing HIV transmission rates and improving long-term health outcomes in Singapore.