The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has announced the launch of a new multisectoral platform aimed at accelerating the elimination of HIV as a public health threat across the Americas. The Regional Alliance for HIV Elimination in the Americas was unveiled on 7 December 2025 and brings together governments, community organizations, academic institutions, private-sector leaders, and international bodies to address ongoing gaps in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
Despite significant investments leading to major advancements in the HIV response, data from PAHO and UNAIDS indicate that progress has been inconsistent. In 2024, the Americas recorded approximately 170,000 new HIV infections and 38,000 AIDS-related deaths. While the Caribbean experienced a 21% reduction in new infections from 2010 to 2024, Latin America saw a concerning 13% increase during the same period. Health authorities have highlighted that many new infections occur among populations facing barriers to timely testing and treatment.
PAHO officials emphasized that the new alliance aims to revitalize cooperation and foster innovation at a critical juncture. “This platform is a call to rethink approaches, rebuild partnerships, and strengthen collective action in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, ensuring universal access to innovative, life-saving technologies,” said Monica Alonso, Chief of PAHO’s Unit on HIV, Hepatitis, Tuberculosis, and Sexually Transmitted Infections. “We must also work towards eliminating the barriers that hinder access to services.”
The alliance will focus on three priority areas: expanding timely diagnosis, scaling up preventive tools, and optimizing treatment. A key initiative is the regional rollout of HIV self-testing, which PAHO considers essential for reaching individuals who do not access traditional health services. Another significant component is the expansion of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), including both oral and injectable options. This includes the introduction of Lenacapavir, the first injectable PrEP option available twice a year, which experts believe could be transformative for those who find daily or monthly regimens challenging.
According to projections shared by PAHO at the launch, scaling up both oral and injectable PrEP could reduce new HIV infections in the region by over 70% within four years. If countries enhance these prevention efforts alongside increased access to antiretroviral therapy, PAHO estimates that new infections could decline by more than 90% across Latin America and the Caribbean.
“Recent scientific and technological advancements make it possible to assert that HIV elimination is now within reach,” Alonso stated. “While biomedical innovation is crucial, effective policies and supportive social environments are equally important to ensure that this progress benefits everyone equitably.”
The Americas have a proven track record of achieving public health milestones—from the eradication of smallpox and polio to recent certifications of countries that have successfully ended mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis. PAHO officials noted that the region’s established procurement systems, including its Revolving Funds, will facilitate equitable access to new diagnostics and treatments. They highlighted that incorporating Lenacapavir into joint purchasing mechanisms will be vital for reducing cost barriers and enhancing uptake.
As part of its governance structure, the new alliance will align with the Sustainable Health Agenda for the Americas 2018–2030 and PAHO’s broader Elimination Initiative. PAHO will serve as the technical secretariat for the alliance, coordinating efforts with UNAIDS, national governments, communities, and academic partners. The organization plans to facilitate regional dialogue, support regulatory harmonization, and promote sustainable financing—all aimed at achieving zero HIV-related deaths by 2030.
