HIV Action Plan Report.pdf

Estonia's National HIV Program 2017-2025 aims to achieve a sustained decline in HIV infections through targeted, integrated, and cross-sectoral measures. The program's key objectives include reducing new HIV cases to the EU average by 2025 and increasing the proportion of HIV-positive individuals receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART).

In 2017-2018, HIV infections in Estonia continued to decline, with 74% and 83% of new cases, respectively, occurring among individuals aged 30 and older. Heterosexual transmission was the primary mode of transmission, accounting for 44% and 39% of new cases in 2017 and 2018, respectively.

The number of HIV tests conducted in Estonia increased in 2017-2018, with 164,000 and 173,000 tests performed, respectively. The introduction of rapid HIV testing has been particularly beneficial for vulnerable populations, including drug users.

The number of individuals receiving ART has continued to grow, with 4,109 and 4,112 patients receiving treatment in 2017 and 2018, respectively. The treatment regimen has shifted towards the use of integrase inhibitors, which offer a more modern and effective treatment option.

However, challenges persist, including the lack of access to hepatitis C treatment in prisons and the limited availability of modern hepatitis C treatment in the general population. Efforts to expand harm reduction services and improve access to ART and other health services continue.