From November 25 to 29, 2024, Odesa participated in the European HIV Testing Week as part of the «HIV in Europe» initiative.
With the support of local health authorities, free HIV testing was made available to everyone in the city.
The tests used were rapid tests, providing results in just 15 minutes. Their procurement is funded by the city budget under the “Health” program.
During the testing week, 1,192 people underwent rapid testing, identifying 8 individuals with a positive HIV result.
Those with positive results were referred to the City AIDS Center for diagnosis confirmation and medical care, including antiretroviral therapy.
Modern antiretroviral drugs, provided free of charge, help reduce viral load to undetectable levels.
Odesa has achieved significant progress in HIV treatment, with 96% of patients receiving therapy having an undetectable virus in their blood. This allows them to live fulfilling lives without posing a risk to others.
These results highlight the successful implementation of the global Fast Track Cities initiative, which Odesa joined by signing the Paris Declaration.
Odesa's efforts in combating HIV have gained international recognition.
