Experts warn: HIV may rise in the Netherlands despite advances in treatment
After years of continuous decline, new HIV diagnoses in the Netherlands are expected to rise, ending a long downward trend. Last year, 444 new cases were recorded, indicating a concerning halt in progress, according to the Stichting HIV Monitoring.
The organization indicates that preventive medications, rapid tests, and effective follow-up have significantly reduced AIDS cases since 2010. Currently, about 26,000 people in the country are living with AIDS, but it is estimated that 1,610 of them are unaware that they are carrying the virus, an increase from 1,545 the previous year.
Director Mark van der Valk warned that although modern medications prevent death and stop the transmission of infection for those who adhere to treatment, the diagnosis still carries an emotional and social burden. He said, 'Daily medication is not a simple matter. There is still a stigma.'
The increase in new diagnoses is mainly attributed to gay men born after 1980, particularly those with low income. Experts point to limited access to the preventive PrEP medication, which is not covered by basic health insurance and costs between 17 and 67 euros per month.
Aidsfonds supports the addition of PrEP to the basic health insurance package. Director Mark Vermeulen emphasized its importance: "Condoms work well against sexually transmitted diseases, but they are not always sufficient. PrEP is simply an effective way to protect yourself from a lifelong chronic condition."