HIV cases have surged to a record level in the Maldives this year. 

Information shared by the Health Protection Agency (HPA) in response to an RTI request in July this year revealed that from 1991 to the end of 2025, 54 persons tested positive for HIV. During this period, HIV caused 16 deaths, leaving 38 individuals. 

However, in response to a question posed on a programme on State radio Voice of Maldives, Health Minister Geela Ali revealed last Sunday that 76 HIV positive cases have been reported to date. Accounting for deaths, there are at present 52 persons positive for HIV in the country, she said. 

Comparing the figures previously shared by HPA with the Minister's data, 22 new cases of HIV have been reported this year alone. This is the highest number of cases recorded within a year since HIV was first detected in the country. 

As per the HPA's previously released records, 5 persons tested positive for HIV in 2025. On average, 3 to 6 cases are reported within a year. 

Last Thursday, HPA shared a post on social media to raise public awareness of HIV. However, authorities are yet to officially disclose a surge in cases.

Minister Geela noted in the radio programme that positive results are being seen of public awareness efforts. She said that the awareness programmes inform people about how HIV is transmitted and the treatment options available. 

While HIV is generally transmitted through unsafe sexual contact, reuse of syringes, and perinatal transmissions, the specific reasons which have caused the recent surge in cases in the Maldives remains unclear.