Ending HIV transmission in Scotland by 2030

Scope of proposal

The recommendations in this proposal recognise the previously described actions already in place to reduce HIV transmission. These need to be maintained/restored and built upon to maximise the opportunities for HIV transmission elimination by 2030.

The focus of this proposal is primarily on ending HIV transmission and is not intended as a comprehensive HIV action plan covering all aspects of HIV treatment and care.

With therapy, people living with HIV who are linked to specialist care now have similar life expectancy as people who are not living with the virus. Following on from 2021's "Reset and Rebuild" [Ref 15], a Scottish Government-led update of the sexual health and blood borne virus (SHBBV) Framework [Ref 16] is currently in development to address wider SHBBV outcomes. This will consider wider actions in relation to HIV. However, barriers to becoming undetectable, entry into care and retention in HIV care are important components that influence HIV transmission and so are also considered within the scope of this proposal.

This proposal recommends that Scotland achieves and maintains the UNAIDS 95:95:95 goals (95% of individuals with HIV diagnosed; 95% on treatment; 95% suppressed viral load) by 2025.

As in previous years, this will be measured and reported on in annual HIV data reports [Ref 4]. Although there are challenges in measuring outcomes other than at an overarching national level, it is important that actions remain in place to meet and further exceed the 95:95:95 goals (notably the first percentage of people who are diagnosed) in all sub-populations at risk of HIV and across all geographical areas of Scotland. Outcome data will be reported by NHS Board areas in annual HIV reports [Ref 4].