World AIDS Day 2025 took place today under the motto “It all depends on us now.” The number of HIV infections has increased over the past year, not only across Germany but also in Bavaria. Munich’s Aidshilfe emphasizes prevention and warns against unprotected sexual intercourse, particularly among young people.
Dr. Tobias Oliver Weismantel, Executive Director of Munich’s Aidshilfe, views the current data from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) with concern: “HIV infections have risen in all areas this year.” By this, he meant the groups of MSM (men who have sex with men—not necessarily homosexual, but also bisexual or pansexual, or those who simply want to try), heterosexuals, and people who inject drugs intravenously.
Youth Awareness of HIV Must Be Raised
In Bavaria alone, the RKI estimates that 290 people were newly infected with the HIV virus in the past year. Weismantel did not yet have exact figures for Munich. In light of the increase in cases, he pointed out that prevention continues to play a vital role. Munich’s Aidshilfe, for example, organizes events for schools, visits the Super Bloom Festival and Kinky Partys to raise awareness about HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.
Weismantel is particularly concerned about the group of young people. “The topic of HIV needs to be raised more frequently among young people,” he stressed, and referred to the fact that the transmission of other diseases, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, is increasing due to unprotected sexual intercourse. He noticed a certain complacency regarding this issue specifically among young people. “I believe that HIV has dropped off the radar because it has ceased to be a fatal disease.”
Where to Get Tested for HIV in Munich
Nevertheless, infection with the virus is still associated with a great sense of shame. Discrimination also occurs. At the same time, the virus is not transmissible from people who have received a positive HIV test, are undergoing treatment, and whose viral load has become undetectable, even during unprotected sexual intercourse.
Weismantel focused attention: “HIV remains a relevant issue.” There are still many people who are only diagnosed at the AIDS stage, meaning the HIV virus is already in an advanced form. Therefore, the Executive Director of Munich’s Aidshilfe expressed the wish that general practitioners also conduct more HIV tests when suspicions arise.
Those who want to get tested in Munich have several options. In addition to the Health Department, which offers free tests, testing can also be done at Aidshilfe or with a general practitioner. Those who want to be tested confidentially can order a test to be delivered home.
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