In 2023, there was a 15% decrease in new HIV diagnoses in Ireland compared to pre-pandemic years, with a total of 911 cases reported. However, almost 40% of cases were diagnosed late, with 61% of cases found in people already aware of their HIV status. The number of first-time diagnoses has been increasing since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, with 173 new cases last year. Heterosexuals accounted for half of these diagnoses, and initiatives such as access to pre-exposure prophylaxis have helped reduce rates among gay and bisexual men. The Health Protection Surveillance Centre emphasizes the importance of timely HIV care and prevention programs.
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