In just the first five months of 2025, at least ten new cases of HIV infection have been registered in Kosovo – a figure that, according to doctors, confirms a worrying upward trend.

Last year ended with 34 identified cases, compared to 20 in 2023.

The latest figures come from the National Institute of Public Health of Kosovo, where all healthcare institutions – whether public or private – are obligated to report cases.

Infectious disease specialists say the number of HIV cases – a virus that damages the immune system and can be transmitted through the exchange of bodily fluids – is alarming.

“There isn’t enough awareness among young people about how this infection is transmitted. Perhaps they also lack information on where and how to get tested,” says Murat Mehmeti, head of the department for sexually transmitted diseases at the Infectious Disease Clinic in Pristina. He states that so far this year, the clinic – which operates within the University Clinical Center of Kosovo – has recorded ten new HIV cases.

“Last year we had 29 new cases in our clinic, a much higher number than in 2023,” Mehmeti adds, noting that many cases go unreported and undiagnosed due to stigma.

According to Mehmeti, around 100 infected individuals currently receive services and therapy at this clinic. Testing and therapy, both at this and other public institutions in Kosovo, are offered free of charge.