San Francisco Recorded Record-Low HIV Infections in 2025
The city saw 136 new cases last year, continuing a two-decade trend of declining infection rates.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Sexual Health
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San Francisco officials confirmed 136 new HIV infections in 2025, marking the lowest figure on record for the city. This data reflects a 75% decrease in new diagnoses over the past 20 years, as the city maintains its focus on connecting newly diagnosed individuals to local care providers.
Why it matters
The drop in new infections underscores the efficacy of targeted health access points designed to reach populations disproportionately affected by the virus. With over 90% of newly diagnosed residents connected to care within a month, the city is shifting toward managing long-term outcomes for an aging population.
Public health surveillance in 2025 identified 136 new HIV infections in San Francisco, representing a 75% reduction from levels observed two decades ago. While recent progress is significant, investigators continue to monitor disparities among specific demographic groups.
The players
San Francisco City Clinic
A public health facility providing specialized testing, treatment, and preventive services like PrEP for residents.
The details
The city's strategy relies on decentralized health access points that provide clinical services directly in communities where at-risk individuals gather. This approach improves uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medications, which were used by 74% of men who have sex with men at the San Francisco City Clinic in 2025. By facilitating immediate linkage to care, the program helps ensure rapid viral suppression for those who test positive.
Timeline
1990s: Thousands of HIV infections occurred annually in San Francisco.
2012: The downward trend in new HIV infections began.
2014: San Francisco launched the Getting to Zero campaign.
2023: Injectable PrEP prevention tool became available for use.
2025: San Francisco recorded 136 new HIV infections.
Health Landscape
The 2025 infection data demonstrates a significant progression toward the objectives set by the Getting to Zero campaign. This success reflects a broader evolution in medical management, moving from initial crisis response to the maintenance of viral suppression for an aging population.
If you are concerned about your HIV risk, discuss the range of preventive options, including injectable PrEP, with your physician or at a clinic. Those living in affected communities should prioritize regular screenings, as early detection is critical for rapid linkage to support services.
The takeaway
San Francisco's success in reducing new HIV cases highlights the power of removing barriers to care through targeted clinical outreach. Residents should continue to track their personal health status through routine testing and consult with a provider to determine the best prevention strategies.
Further reading
Learn more about local testing and prevention resources in our Sexual Health section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by San Francisco Chronicle.
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