Hazardous sexual activity and drug use continue to be primary contributors to HIV transmission
Belarus, a country in Eastern Europe, has seen a significant reduction in its HIV disease rate over the past year, according to the latest data. The adult HIV prevalence rate in the country stands at approximately 0.4%, with an estimated 27,000 people living with HIV as of mid-2025 [4].
Unprotected sex has emerged as a leading cause of new HIV cases in Belarus, driving the ongoing transmission of the virus. This finding aligns with global patterns, where sexual transmission is the primary route for new HIV infections [1][4]. Despite the lack of precise Belarus-specific percentages, the link between unprotected sex and HIV risk is well understood in the region [1][4].
The "universal treatment strategy," implemented eight years ago in Belarus, has been instrumental in reducing the number of individuals who are unable to transmit the HIV infection to others. As of now, approximately 21,500 individuals living with HIV in Belarus are unable to transmit the infection to others [4].
Over the past six months, 578 new cases of HIV have been registered in Belarus. Interestingly, only 9% of new HIV cases in the first half of 2025 were due to intravenous drug use, which is a significant drop compared to previous years [4]. Additionally, no cases of vertical HIV transmission (from mother to child) were registered in the first six months of 2025 [4].
Age is another critical factor in the HIV epidemic in Belarus. In 2025, 8 out of 10 new HIV cases occurred in the 30-59 age group [4]. This trend suggests a need for targeted prevention efforts and education among the middle-aged population.
The HIV situation in Belarus, as of July 1, 2025, shows a significant reduction in disease rate compared to the previous year. Since the implementation of the "universal treatment strategy," a total of 36,902 HIV cases have been registered in Belarus [4]. Historically, 61% of HIV cases in Belarus have been men, and 39% have been women [4].
Healthcare professionals emphasize the importance of consistent condom use in protecting against HIV, as well as viral hepatitis B and C, and other sexually transmitted infections [4]. The ongoing management of the HIV epidemic in Belarus relies on surveillance, prevention, and the promotion of safe sex practices [1][4].
As more precise new case statistics and detailed transmission mode breakdowns become available from national health reports or updated UNDP data, they will provide greater clarity on recent trends in the HIV epidemic in Belarus.
Sources: [1] Belarus HIV Surveillance Report, 2025 [2] UNDP HIV Epidemic Update, Belarus, 2025 [3] World Health Organization, HIV/AIDS Factsheet, Belarus, 2025 [4] Belarus Ministry of Health, HIV/AIDS Statistics, 2025
Science has highlighted the importance of consistent condom use in health-and-wellness, particularly for sexual health, as a protective measure against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Mental-health professionals also emphasize the need for education and awareness about HIV risk factors, especially in the 30-59 age group, given that 8 out of 10 new HIV cases in Belarus occur within this age range.
