World AIDS Day: Funding Cuts Threaten Global Progress, Local Vigilance Remains Crucial
Today, December 1st, is World AIDS Day, a moment to reflect on the progress made in combating HIV and to reaffirm commitment to ending the epidemic. However,recent trends paint a concerning picture. The Institution for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) projects a meaningful decline – between 30 and 40 percent – in external health aid to low- and middle-income countries in 2025 compared to 2023. This reduction in funding has direct and devastating consequences for HIV prevention and treatment efforts globally.
These cuts are already impacting essential services. Pregnant women are being denied HIV screening,children are missing crucial early diagnoses,and access to preventative measures like pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is dwindling. Critically, individuals living with HIV are being turned away from life-saving treatment.
This reversal threatens to undo decades of progress. The ambitious goal of eliminating AIDS as a global public health threat by 2030 is now in jeopardy, with experts fearing a resurgence of the virus on a larger scale.Viruses, as a matter of fact, do not respect national borders; an increase in global infections will inevitably impact countries like Germany.
Despite these global challenges, Germany maintains a strong response to HIV. Currently, approximately 97,700 people in Germany are living with HIV, with around 8,200 unaware of their infection status. In 2025,an estimated 3,000 new diagnoses are expected,and roughly one-third of these individuals will already have an advanced immune deficiency.
This underscores the importance of proactive testing and early intervention. Individuals at risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection are strongly encouraged to seek testing and advice. Early diagnosis and treatment are highly effective, allowing individuals to regain and maintain stable health.
The Landshut Health Department is actively addressing this need by offering accessible,expanded advice and testing services. Already this year, nearly 200 people have utilized these services, and demand is growing. Testing is available not only for HIV but also for other sexually transmitted infections, tailored to individual risk factors and vaccination status. All services are provided anonymously and free of charge, with walk-in options available Monday-Wednesday from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and Thursdays from 2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Individual appointments can also be scheduled by phone or email.
Crucial Note: While other departments of the Landshut District Office will be relocating to Essenbach in October 2025, the Health Department will remain at its current location.however, please be aware of updated contact details:
Landshut Health Department
Achdorfer Weg 7, 84036 Landshut
Telephone: 08703 9073 7000
Email: gesundheit@landkreis-landshut.de
For detailed information and advice on sexual health, please contact the Landshut Health Department.
