From November 25 to 29, 2024, Odesa participated in the European HIV Testing Week as part of the «HIV in Europe» initiative.
With support from the Odesa City Council Health Department and other local health organizations, free and confidential HIV testing was made available to all residents.
Rapid tests, which provide results in 15 minutes, were utilized. The procurement of these tests was funded by the Odesa city budget under the “Health” program.
During the testing week, 1192 individuals were tested, resulting in 8 positive HIV cases.
Those with positive results were referred to the City AIDS Center for diagnosis confirmation and treatment planning.
Modern antiretroviral drugs, provided at no cost, help minimize viral load in patients.
Currently, 96% of patients receiving antiretroviral therapy have undetectable viral loads, allowing them to live full lives.
These achievements indicate successful implementation of the Fast Track Cities initiative, which Odesa joined by signing the Paris Declaration.
Odesa's efforts in combating HIV have received international recognition.
