The number of new HIV infections in Germany is estimated to have increased in 2024, according to recent figures from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI). Approximately 2,300 individuals are believed to have contracted HIV in the past year, representing an increase of around 200 cases compared to the previous year.

The RKI conducts annual assessments of HIV incidence, focusing on new infections acquired within Germany as well as those contracted abroad by individuals of German origin. The data indicate a notable rise among certain population groups.

Infection Trends Among Key Demographics

Men who have sex with men remain the most affected group, with an estimated 1,300 new HIV cases in 2024--approximately 100 more than in 2023. The number of infections attributed to intravenous drug use also showed an increase, with around 400 new cases reported, 60 higher than the previous year. This group has experienced a gradual but steady growth in new infections since 2010.

Heterosexual transmission accounted for an estimated 590 new infections in 2024, 45 more than the previous year. These figures underscore the persisting challenge of HIV transmission across diverse segments of the population.

Prevalence and Treatment Coverage

By the end of 2024, the total number of people living with HIV in Germany is estimated to have reached 97,700. Of these, about 8,200 cases are believed to remain undiagnosed. The widespread adoption of antiretroviral therapy has contributed significantly to patient health and public safety. Approximately 98 percent of individuals diagnosed with HIV are reported to be undergoing treatment, with 96 percent achieving viral suppression that effectively eliminates the risk of sexual transmission.

Ongoing Public Health Efforts

The increase in new HIV infections highlights the ongoing need for targeted public health strategies. The RKI emphasizes the importance of expanding testing services tailored to specific at-risk populations and improving access to preventive measures and treatment across the country.

Despite effective therapies, HIV diagnoses are often made years after initial infection, which can impact both individual health outcomes and efforts to control the spread of the virus. The routine surveillance data are primarily based on laboratory reports, which provide limited insights into the current patterns of HIV transmission in Germany. As a result, the RKI relies on modeling techniques to estimate both new and total cases accurately.

Efforts to enhance awareness, expand preventative services, and ensure early diagnosis remain central to reducing the burden of HIV in Germany. Public health authorities continue to monitor trends and adapt strategies to address the evolving landscape of HIV transmission.