HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS

HIV remains one of the central health challenges within the Ethiopian-Israeli community. As of 2024, 12% of new HIV cases in Israel were diagnosed among Ethiopian Israelis — a proportion high relative to the community's share of the total population. However, there is a notable positive trend: a 22% decline in infection rates in recent years, resulting from community-engaged outreach and testing programs.

HIV treatment has undergone a revolutionary transformation over recent decades. ARV (antiretroviral) medications enable people living with HIV to live long, full, and healthy lives — and to reach an "undetectable" viral load (Undetectable = Untransmittable). This means: someone receiving treatment who is measured as "undetectable" does not transmit the virus to others.

Cultural barriers remain a significant obstacle: social stigma around HIV within the community is very high, and many people avoid testing for fear of social exclusion. It is important to emphasize that tests are confidential, treatment is free through health plans, and there is no obligation to disclose to parties not involved in medical care.

AMEN (Association for AIDS-Infected Persons) and Tene Briut offer support in Hebrew and Amharic for people living with HIV and their families. Early detection and prompt treatment initiation are the best tools for ensuring quality of life.