Andorra records fewer HIV diagnoses in 2024, treatment coverage near‑universal

Antiretroviral therapy has transformed HIV into a manageable chronic condition: modern regimens achieve durable viral suppression, are generally well tolerated, and — when adhered to — prevent onward transmission (undetectable = untransmittable). Nevertheless, there is no cure and early diagnosis and sustained treatment remain essential to individual health and public‑health control.

Andorra recorded eight new HIV diagnoses in the 2024 epidemiological year, two fewer than in 2023. That reduction lowered the incidence from 11.75 to 9.19 new cases per 100,000 inhabitants. The country’s cumulative register reached 114 HIV/AIDS cases in 2024, a prevalence of 0.131%; 85.08% of registered cases were male and 14.92% female. The Ministry of Health reports that 98.25% of people with HIV received antiretroviral treatment during 2024.

The main transmission route identified is unprotected sexual intercourse, irrespective of sexual orientation. To strengthen early detection, the Ministry of Health and the public health service (SAAS) introduced free rapid tests for HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B and C in primary care centres in 2024. Since the programme began, 95 people have been tested through 399 rapid tests, which identified one case of syphilis and one case of HIV. The service includes professional counselling and ensures rapid referral and follow‑up for positive results.

Treatment and prevention are publicly supported. Antiretroviral therapy is fully financed by the national social security fund (CASS). Since 2022 the CASS has reimbursed 75% of the cost of pre‑exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for people at higher risk; 19 people currently receive PrEP under that scheme. PrEP prescriptions and clinical follow‑up are provided by internists experienced in HIV care, and prevention information and consultation services such as Consulta Jove and SIAD are freely accessible to the public.

Epidemiological surveillance in Andorra uses a nominal reporting system introduced in 2023, involving physicians, clinical laboratories and pharmacies, and the Ministry has made the data publicly available online. At the regional level, the World Health Organization recorded 105,922 new HIV cases in the WHO European Region in 2024, an incidence of 11.8 per 100,000 — a slight decline that will require continued monitoring.

Medical advances have substantially improved prognosis and reduced transmission risk, but they have not eliminated risk. Continued prevention efforts, widespread testing, treatment adherence and public education are needed to sustain progress and avoid complacency.