June 27 marks World HIV Testing Day, a crucial date to raise awareness about the importance of knowing one’s health status and adopting preventive measures. In Armenia, the capital of the department of Quindío, significant efforts are being made to address this public health problem with concrete initiatives.
Advances in HIV detection in Armenia
To date, a total of 1,627 rapid HIV tests have been carried out in Armenia. These tests have been distributed as follows to reach various vulnerable populations:
– 791 tests on men who have sexual relations with other men
– 290 tests on migrant population
– 417 tests on sex workers
– 128 tests on people who inject substances
Projection for 2024
The goal for next year is ambitious, with the goal of carrying out 3,568 tests. This expansion seeks to increase early detection of HIV and strengthen prevention strategies in the region.
Test Features
Rapid tests are characterized as being “free, confidential and fast,” using the finger-prick method to obtain results in approximately 20 minutes. They detect both HIV antibodies and antigens in the blood, allowing the infection to be identified within a period of 18 to 45 days after exposure.
Comprehensive strategy
This initiative is the result of an agreement between EnTerritorio and the Ministry of Health of Armenia, executed by the ESE Red Salud. Brenda Ante Rave, HIV project coordinator, highlighted the importance of these tests as a tool to make informed health decisions and activate appropriate care pathways based on individual needs.
In addition to testing, additional measures are being implemented, such as the delivery of prevention and injection kits to people who inject substances, as well as the activation of care routes for guidance and treatment.
Importance of early detection
Early detection of HIV is crucial to maintaining personal health, reducing the spread of the virus and protecting the broader community. The focus on high-risk populations seeks to maximize the impact of these interventions and promote continued engagement in the fight against HIV in Armenia, aligning with the objectives of World HIV Testing Day and positively contributing to regional public health.
