Video: HIV Awareness Month Press Conference
Minister of Health Kim Wilson and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Shaun Ramroop held a press conference today [June 1] to launch HIV Awareness Month 2026.
“HIV remains present in Bermuda. As of December 2025, an estimated 306 people are living with HIV. Last year, we recorded three new HIV cases, one new AIDS case, and no HIV-related deaths. These numbers reflect both the progress we have made and the ongoing responsibility we share to protect one another,” Dr. Ramroop said.
Minister Wilson said, “Throughout June, the Sexual and Reproductive Health Clinic is offering free and confidential HIV testing, making it easier for residents to take that important step. ”
Minister Wilson’s remarks:
Good morning.
As we recognise HIV Awareness and Testing Month, we are reminded that public health is strengthened when people have access to clear information, supportive services, and a community that encourages them to take care of their health. This month allows us to highlight the progress Bermuda has made and the work that continues.
Bermuda has achieved important milestones. One of the most significant is the designation from the World Health Organization and PAHO confirming that Bermuda has eliminated mother-to-child transmission of HIV.
This recognition reflects years of coordinated work across our healthcare system, strong antenatal care, and the commitment of families who partner with us to protect their children. It shows what is possible when prevention, early testing, and treatment are accessible and trusted.
The Government continues to support HIV prevention and treatment through a range of services.
Throughout June, the Sexual and Reproductive Health Clinic is offering free and confidential HIV testing, making it easier for residents to take that important step. We also continue to share the message that when a person living with HIV is on treatment and becomes undetectable, they cannot pass the virus on. This remains a key part of reducing transmission and helping people live healthy, full lives.
Our work is focused on ensuring that people living with HIV are diagnosed early, receive antiretroviral therapy, and achieve viral suppression.
This depends on strong clinical services, consistent follow-up, and a supportive environment that encourages people to seek care without fear or hesitation. HIV services are delivered while respecting human rights and protecting individuals from discrimination.
This helps ensure that people living with HIV are treated fairly and can access services without stigma.
Even with progress, stigma remains a barrier. Too many people still hesitate to get tested or seek care because they worry about how they will be treated.
This month, we are encouraging families, workplaces, community groups, and faith organisations to help create an environment where people feel safe to ask questions, seek support, and take steps to protect their health.
The Government will continue to invest in prevention, strengthen our clinical services, and support the organisations that work directly with individuals and families.
Ending stigma and reducing new infections requires a collective effort. When we speak openly, share accurate information, and encourage testing, we help build a healthier Bermuda.
I encourage every resident to take advantage of the free testing available this month, learn about prevention options, and support others in doing the same.
HIV is preventable and treatable, and together we can continue the progress we have made.
Thank you.
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Shaun Ramroop’s remarks:
Good morning.
I want to thank the Minister for her leadership and for outlining the progress Bermuda has made in strengthening our national response to HIV. Her remarks remind us that when prevention, treatment, and human rights work together, we achieve outcomes that once felt out of reach.
As we launch HIV Awareness and Testing Month, I would like to build on that foundation by speaking to the clinical realities we see today—and what they mean for our community.
HIV remains present in Bermuda. As of December 2025, an estimated 306 people are living with HIV. Last year, we recorded three new HIV cases, one new AIDS case, and no HIV-related deaths. These numbers reflect both the progress we have made and the ongoing responsibility we share to protect one another.
The Minister highlighted the importance of free and confidential testing throughout June.
From a clinical standpoint, testing is not only a service, it is a gateway to early diagnosis, timely treatment, and long-term health. When people know their status, they can access care that allows them to live full, healthy lives.
The demographics of HIV in Bermuda also tell an important story. Most individuals living with HIV are between 45 and 64 years old, and 80% acquired HIV through sexual contact. These patterns reinforce the need for open conversations, safer practices, and accessible information for people of all ages and backgrounds.
The Minister spoke to the importance of viral suppression. I want to reinforce that message. When someone living with HIV is on treatment and achieves an undetectable viral load, they cannot pass the virus on. This scientific reality, undetectable equals untransmittable, remains one of the most powerful tools we have to reduce new infections.
However, one of the greatest barriers we continue to face is stigma. From a clinical perspective, stigma delays diagnosis, disrupts continuity of care, and increases risk across the community. When people hesitate to seek testing or treatment because they fear judgment, the entire system is affected.
This month, I am asking our community to replace stigma with understanding, and misinformation with accurate, compassionate dialogue.
Prevention also remains central to our work. Safer sexual practices, regular testing, and open communication with partners all reduce risk. Our Sexual & Reproductive Health Clinic provides confidential, judgment-free support for anyone seeking guidance, testing, or treatment.
I want to express my sincere appreciation to our healthcare teams, community partners, and NGOs who continue to champion HIV prevention and care. Your dedication ensures that Bermuda’s response remains strong, evidence-based, and grounded in dignity.
And as part of our broader commitment to sexual health, I am pleased to share that mpox vaccines will be available free of charge throughout the month of June. This is an important step in reducing risk and ensuring equitable access to protection.
As we begin HIV Awareness and Testing Month, I encourage everyone to participate, whether by getting tested, attending an event, sharing accurate information, or supporting someone who may be navigating their own health journey. Every action contributes to a healthier Bermuda.
Thank you.
