Free HIV and Hepatitis Testing to Be Held

The Republic of Armenia’s Ministry of Health, through the National Center for HIV/AIDS Prevention, will conduct public events from November 22 to 30, supported by the United Nations Joint Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS). These events will coincide with World AIDS Day on December 1, taking place in Yerevan and several other cities across the country, providing the opportunity for those interested to receive free and anonymous testing for HIV, Hepatitis B and C, and syphilis.

Since 2013, the European initiative "HIV in Europe" has declared the week preceding World AIDS Day as European Testing Week for HIV and Hepatitis testing. An individual infected with HIV can remain asymptomatic and unaware of their infection for many years (on average 8-10 years). Moreover, it is not possible to visually discern whether someone is infected. Therefore, it is crucial to get tested for HIV regardless of any health complaints you may have.

The testing is accompanied by pre- and post-test counseling, using a blood sample taken from the finger, with results provided within 15-20 minutes. The outcome of the test is not affected by food intake. Confidentiality of the testing is guaranteed.

The counseling and testing will be conducted by specialists from the HIV Center in mobile clinics donated to Armenia by the Russian Federation. Specific event locations and times include:

• November 22 from 13:00 to 19:00 in the area adjacent to building 5 on Northern Avenue in Yerevan.
• November 24 from 13:00 to 19:00 at G. Nzhdeh Square in Yerevan and from 12:00 to 17:00 in Artashat near the provincial governor's office, and also in Gavarr near the polyclinic.
• November 26 from 12:00 to 17:00 near the Masis City Hall.
• November 29 from 12:00 to 17:00 near the polyclinic in Abovyan.
• November 30 from 12:00 to 17:00 near "LOFT Gyumri" in Gyumri.
• On November 1 from 13:00 to 19:00 it will be conducted in Yerevan at the area adjacent to building 5 on Northern Avenue and from 12:00 to 17:00 in Vardanants Square in Gyumri, as well as near the Vanadzor City Hall.