Sichuan Province has reported its first-ever case of HIV-2, a rare strain of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that is uncommon in China. The case was identified in a 67-year-old woman from Meishan city, who initially tested positive for HIV in January 2025. Advanced confirmatory testing and genetic sequencing later revealed the infection to be caused by HIV-2, as detailed in a study published in the Chinese Journal of AIDS & STD. HIV is categorized into two types: HIV-1 and HIV-2. While HIV-1 is more globally prevalent and highly pathogenic, HIV-2 is less transmissible and progresses more slowly. This discovery underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring and advanced diagnostic techniques in identifying rare viral strains. Health authorities are now focusing on understanding the transmission pathways and implementing targeted prevention measures to curb the spread of this less common variant.