Dal 18 al 25.11.2024 in tutta Europa appuntamento con i test per HIV, HCV e IST

From November 18 to 25, 2024, the European Testing Week (ETW) returns, celebrating its tenth edition this year. Promoted by EUROTEST twice a year, the European Testing Week sees numerous public and private health organizations, non-profit entities, communities, and associations come together across the WHO European Region (which includes fifty-three countries between Europe and Central Asia). Common goals are to increase the availability of tests for the early diagnosis of HIV, viral hepatitis, and other sexually transmitted infections and to raise awareness about these issues among institutions and the public.

Test, Treat, Prevent: "Test, Treat, Prevent" is the slogan of this vast and collective initiative, which constitutes one of the most important global mobilizations for public health. Knowing in time whether one has contracted one or more of these infections can help prevent their spread, saving the lives and health of tens of thousands of people. Today, we have strategies and therapies capable of controlling HIV, making the virus non-transmissible (U=U), which provides enormous health benefits for those who have contracted the virus and for overall prevention. Additionally, there are treatments that can completely cure hepatitis C, control hepatitis B, and effectively treat other STIs. It is also important not to forget the availability of vaccines for HBV and other sexually transmitted infections or PrEP, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, to prevent HIV.

Unfortunately, a significant portion of these infections still remains undiagnosed or diagnosed late, a phenomenon that undermines people's health and continues to support the spread of these infections. In Italy, for several years now, about 60% of those who discover they have HIV are already in AIDS or close to this condition and thus have a very compromised state of health. This is an unacceptable fact in light of the therapeutic and preventive opportunities available.

CAMA and LILA of Bari, which offer testing services all year round, have always participated in the ETW. This year as well, the two associations, in collaboration with Arcigay and the Street Unit of Coop. C.A.Ps, will offer rapid, anonymous, and free saliva tests for HIV and HCV. Those who seek our testing services will be offered anonymous informational interviews and pre- and post-test counseling. In case of a reactive result, individuals will be supported and accompanied in accessing public services for any necessary confirmatory exams, for taking charge of their care, and for accessing therapies. Every encounter becomes, nonetheless, a valuable opportunity for prevention and information focused on the individual and their specific needs.

In Bari, these are the events for those who want to take the HIV and HCV tests anonymously and for free:

- 18.11 - 5:00 PM/7:30 PM - CAMA OdV ETS headquarters (Via Castromediano 66 - S. Pasquale district)
- 20.11 - 6:30 PM/8:30 PM - in collaboration with CAPS Social Cooperative - P.zza Umberto
- 23.11 - 7:00 PM/9:00 PM - in collaboration with Arcigay Bari - Casa Delle Donne Del Mediteraneo (piazzetta Sant'Antonio)
Web: www.associazionecama.it