This increase in the number of people diagnosed affects all groups of the population. However, diagnoses are particularly higher among Belgian men aged 30 to 39 who have sex with men (MSM). Heterosexual men and women, whether of Belgian origin or not, are also affected. Among women, half of new diagnoses were made among those of sub-Saharan African origin.
Complex reasons
The reasons for this unexpected increase in HIV infections are complex and varied:
- Many people are still apparently unaware of the risks and therefore do not take appropriate preventive measures.
- Reduced and inconsistent condom use plays an important role. However, since the start of the epidemic, emphasis has been placed on the use of condoms as a protective measure.
- Although the use of preventive treatments such as PrEP remains constantly increasing among MSM, other at-risk groups face obstacles both in terms of access to PrEP and its effective use.
- The increase of others sexually transmitted infections sexually transmitted (STIs), such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, increase vulnerability because people with STIs are at greater risk of HIV infection if exposed.
According to Sensoa, the Flemish center of expertise on sexual health, the challenge is to reach every citizen, break taboos and reduce obstacles related to care and prevention.
What can you do yourself?
To prevent the spread of HIV, it is essential that everyone takes responsibility. Do you have sexual relations with one or more people for whom you cannot exclude that they are contaminated with HIV? In this case, use systematically (!) a condom and/or a dental dam. Consult your doctor to find out if using PrEP or to the PeP is appropriate for you.
If you are at increased risk of contracting HIV, it is necessary to (get) tested regularly. If risk exposure increases 3 months or moreyou can get a HIV self-test in pharmacy. Please know that your pharmacist will always be ready to answer your questions about HIV and other STIs, to give you advice and to direct you to appropriate services if necessary. You can also find online the different places where you can get tested.
If you are infected with HIV, remember to seek treatment and tell your sexual partner(s). This way, they will also be able to get tested and treated.
Stigma and prejudice about HIV
For people living with HIV, stigma remains the major problem. The majority are very cautious about sharing their diagnosis with anyone (85%). They also fear that this information will be repeated. Half of them think that most people with HIV are rejected (49%). These people testify to the negative treatment, rejection and marginalization they experience if people become aware of their infection. This stigma prevents them from talking openly about HIV and being themselves, leading to anxiety and isolation.
For more information on HIV prevention, testing and treatment, do not hesitate to consult the websites:
This increase in the number of people diagnosed affects all groups of the population. However, diagnoses are particularly higher among Belgian men aged 30 to 39 who have sex with men (MSM). Heterosexual men and women, whether of Belgian origin or not, are also affected. Among women, half of new diagnoses were made among those of sub-Saharan African origin.
Complex reasons
The reasons for this unexpected increase in HIV infections are complex and varied:
- Many people are still apparently unaware of the risks and therefore do not take appropriate preventive measures.
- Reduced and inconsistent condom use plays an important role. However, since the start of the epidemic, emphasis has been placed on the use of condoms as a protective measure.
- Although the use of preventive treatments such as PrEP remains constantly increasing among MSM, other at-risk groups face obstacles both in terms of access to PrEP and its effective use.
- The increase of others sexually transmitted infections sexually transmitted (STIs), such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, increase vulnerability because people with STIs are at greater risk of HIV infection if exposed.
According to Sensoa, the Flemish center of expertise on sexual health, the challenge is to reach every citizen, break taboos and reduce obstacles related to care and prevention.
What can you do yourself?
To prevent the spread of HIV, it is essential that everyone takes responsibility. Do you have sexual relations with one or more people for whom you cannot exclude that they are contaminated with HIV? In this case, use systematically (!) a condom and/or a dental dam. Consult your doctor to find out if using PrEP or to the PeP is appropriate for you.
If you are at increased risk of contracting HIV, it is necessary to (get) tested regularly. If risk exposure increases 3 months or moreyou can get a HIV self-test in pharmacy. Please know that your pharmacist will always be ready to answer your questions about HIV and other STIs, to give you advice and to direct you to appropriate services if necessary. You can also find online the different places where you can get tested.
If you are infected with HIV, remember to seek treatment and tell your sexual partner(s). This way, they will also be able to get tested and treated.
Stigma and prejudice about HIV
For people living with HIV, stigma remains the major problem. The majority are very cautious about sharing their diagnosis with anyone (85%). They also fear that this information will be repeated. Half of them think that most people with HIV are rejected (49%). These people testify to the negative treatment, rejection and marginalization they experience if people become aware of their infection. This stigma prevents them from talking openly about HIV and being themselves, leading to anxiety and isolation.
For more information on HIV prevention, testing and treatment, do not hesitate to consult the websites:
