HIV Diagnoses Surge, Raising Concerns of Complacency in Italy
Rome, Italy – November 9, 2025 – New data released today reveals a concerning rise in HIV diagnoses across Italy, prompting health officials to warn against lowering vigilance in the face of what has become a “forgotten” public health threat. The National Institute of Health (ISS) reported a 15% increase in newly diagnosed HIV cases in the frist nine months of 2025 compared to the same period last year, reversing a trend of relative stability observed in recent years.
This resurgence, particularly among young adults aged 25-34, underscores the critical need for renewed prevention efforts, increased testing accessibility, and sustained public awareness campaigns. Experts attribute the increase to a combination of factors, including reduced condom use, delayed testing due to the COVID-19 pandemic disrupting healthcare services, and a waning sense of urgency surrounding HIV prevention as advancements in treatment have led to the perception of the virus as a manageable chronic condition. The ISS data indicates a notable proportion of those newly diagnosed were unaware of their HIV status for extended periods, leading to potential onward transmission and delayed access to life-saving antiretroviral therapy.
The last comprehensive national strategy for HIV prevention expired in 2022, and a new plan has faced delays in implementation. “We are witnessing a dangerous complacency,” stated dr.Maria Rossi, head of the ISS’s infectious diseases department, in a press conference. “The success of treatment must not overshadow the importance of prevention. We must re-emphasize safe sex practices, promote regular testing, and ensure access to PrEP [pre-exposure prophylaxis] for those at risk.”
Italy first began widespread HIV testing in the 1980s, responding to a rapidly escalating epidemic. While significant progress has been made in reducing transmission rates and improving the quality of life for people living with HIV, the current increase signals a potential setback. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) now allows individuals with HIV to live long and healthy lives and prevents transmission to others, but early diagnosis remains crucial for both individual health and public health control. The ISS is urging regional health authorities to bolster testing capacity and implement targeted prevention programs for high-risk populations. Further analysis of the data is underway to identify specific geographic areas and demographic groups most affected by the recent surge.
