SINGAPORE  — All adults aged 21 and above should undergo at least one HIV test in their lifetime, the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) said on May 23, in its first major public advisory since being set up in 2025. The recommendation applies regardless of risk level, with the agency stressing that early diagnosis remains key to treatment and prevention. 

According to The Straits Times, those with higher-risk sexual behaviours — such as having multiple partners or engaging in casual or commercial sex — are advised to test every three to six months. HIV self-test kits, available at selected pharmacies since 2025, offer a quick and discreet option.

The CDA’s guidance aligns with the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, which aim for 95 per cent of people with HIV to know their status, 95 per cent of those diagnosed to receive treatment, and 95 per cent of those treated to achieve viral suppression. Singapore is close to these benchmarks: nearly 90 per cent of people living with HIV know their diagnosis, 96 per cent of them are on treatment, and 94 per cent have achieved viral suppression. 

To strengthen access to care, the Ministry of Health will raise the MediSave withdrawal limit for HIV drugs from S$550 (RM1,705) to S$850 per month starting June 1. Minister of State for Health Rahayu Mahzam said the move will ease the burden of lifelong antiretroviral therapy and encourage patients to begin treatment immediately after diagnosis.