HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, is a serious though preventable infection that has a disproportionate impact on ethnic and racial minorities. Although there is no cure, new treatments are helping people with HIV live longer. While these treatment regimens are complex, cause serious side effects, and become ineffective as HIV mutates over time, higher rates of individuals living with HIV may be a reflection of medical improvements as well as higher rates of HIV incidence.

In 2016, black or African American residents had the highest rate of people living with HIV per 100,000 residents in our region (332), followed by Hispanic residents (287). Genesee and Wayne counties had a significant rate of black or African American residents living with HIV at 440 and 458, respectively, while Livingston and Orleans had high rates among Hispanic residents at 311 and 350, respectively. Rates for white residents were highest in Monore (54) and lowest in Wyoming (13).

Figures do not include prisoners, as counts with prisoners increased rates dramatically for counties with correctional facilities. Data for Yates and Schuyler counties were combined starting in 2015. Data for this indicator are expected to be released in the fourth quarter, with a 2-year lag.