Manitoba Declares HIV Public Health Emergency

Canada — Manitoba has declared a public health emergency due to a sharp increase in HIV transmissions, with new cases rising from 90 in 2019 to 328 in 2025. The province's HIV rate is significantly higher than the national average, with northern communities, the Prairie Mountain Health region, and Winnipeg being most affected. Indigenous peoples are disproportionately impacted, linked to factors like homelessness, substance use, and socio-economic inequality. Brent Roussin, Canada — Manitoba's chief public health officer, stated that the emergency will allow for more resources and coordinated action. Uzoma Asagwara, Canada — Manitoba's health minister, and Bernadette Smith, Addictions Minister, emphasized increasing awareness, reducing stigma, and establishing harm reduction measures like supervised consumption sites. Keewatinohk Inniniw Minoayawin welcomed the declaration, calling for federal and provincial governments to address funding and service gaps.