Maine is experiencing its biggest HIV outbreak in state history. In January 2026, the Bangor Daily News reported that Penobscot County’s HIV outbreak stood at 36 cases. In most of those cases, individuals also tested positive for hepatitis C.

Health officials estimate that for every identified case of hepatitis C, there are roughly 12-14 unidentified cases. I am deeply concerned that many Mainers are living with hepatitis C — which can present asymptomatically for years and lead to cirrhosis, liver failure and cancer — without even knowing it. I’m writing to raise awareness about the record number of HIV and hepatitis C cases, emphasize the importance of universal screening and call attention to the hard-working organizations responding to the outbreaks.

The current statistics likely do not paint a complete picture of Maine’s ongoing HIV and hepatitis C crises. People who use IV drugs or are unhoused are routinely tested by harm reduction workers. Other populations are not tested with the same regularity and are thus less likely to be represented in case counts.

HIV and hepatitis C are a risk to anyone. Universal screening is vital for undetected cases to be identified and treated. A few of the organizations in Maine responding to this crisis include: Needlepoint Sanctuary, Maine Family Planning, Black Cat Co-op, Wabanaki Health and Wellness, Act Up Bangor and Dignity First. Anyone who is interested in supporting or receiving services from these groups should please get connected. Let’s all work toward a safer, healthier Maine.

Elizabeth McCormack
Bowdoin