From November 25 to 29, 2024, Odesa participated in the European HIV Testing Week as part of the initiative «HIV in Europe».

This event was supported by the Department of Health of the Odesa City Council and other local medical institutions, allowing free confidential HIV testing for anyone interested.

Rapid tests were utilized, providing results within 15 minutes. The purchase of these tests is funded by the city budget under the “Health” program.

During the testing week, a total of 1192 individuals were screened, revealing 8 positive HIV results.

Patients with positive results were referred to the City AIDS Center for diagnosis confirmation and medical supervision to promptly initiate antiretroviral therapy.

Modern medications provided free of charge at the City AIDS Center significantly reduce the viral load in patients.

In Odesa, high treatment outcomes have been achieved, with 96% of HIV patients receiving therapy showing undetectable viral loads. This prevents disease progression and enables people with HIV to live fulfilling lives.

The achievements in HIV detection and treatment reflect 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 received international recognition.