Juventas: Test yourself for HIV for free and anonymously

The non-governmental organization (NGO) Juventas today called on citizens to get tested for the HIV virus.

They spoke on the occasion of December 1, World AIDS Day.

"Testing can be done at Counseling Centers for voluntary, confidential counseling and HIV testing, which are located in the Institute of Public Health in Podgorica, as well as health centers in Herceg Novi, Bar, Kotor, Nikšić, Berane, Bijelo Polje and Pljevlja. and so far, Juventas achieves good cooperation with its partners, the Institute for Public Health of Montenegro, the Clinic for Infectious Diseases and the Society of Infectious Diseases of Montenegro, with whom we conduct free, anonymous testing for HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C during the months of November and December. , the statement of Juventus points out.

The NGO said that timely diagnosis of HIV infection and the use of modern therapy can reduce the number of copies of the virus in the blood to the point where it cannot be detected.

"When the number of copies of the virus in the blood is reduced to such an extent, it cannot be transmitted. Therefore, it is important to strengthen the therapeutic literacy of patients, i.e. the importance of regular and proper use of antiretroviral therapy," Juventas said.

They added that Montenegro belongs to countries with low HIV prevalence, but at the same time has a very low HIV testing rate of 10,6 per 1.000 inhabitants.

"The low rate of HIV testing in Montenegro is also an obstacle to understanding the real HIV prevalence. Early diagnosis of HIV significantly increases the chances of successful therapy, that's why we are sending an invitation for testing on this first of December, because it is the only way for a person to know his HIV status. We also invite the Government of Montenegro, health and educational institutions, the media and civil society organizations to join an active campaign to promote the usefulness of HIV testing," Juventas said in a press release.

The NGO said that it is particularly important to highlight the importance of raising awareness about the fact that people infected with HIV can live a quality life and grow old with HIV, adding that it is important to reduce the degree of stigma and discrimination present in society against HIV positive people.

"It is precisely stigma and discrimination that play a key role in the later diagnosis of the infection and the increase in the death rate from AIDS. This year, the international organization UNAIDS warns that despite significant efforts and aspirations in the direction of the fight against AIDS in the world, numerous economic, social, cultural and legal inequities, are significant barriers to proven HIV prevention and treatment solutions.The report also raises concerns that the COVID-19 pandemic has suppressed the AIDS response, such that the pace of testing has slowed in most countries reporting to UNAIDS to HIV, and fewer people living with HIV started treatment in 2020," Juventas said in a press release.

They also state that ending the coronavirus pandemic is of crucial importance for improving the response to HIV.

"That's why equal access to vaccines in all communities is important. We believe that all people, regardless of gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, socio-economic status or any other personal characteristic, will have equal access to HIV testing, other preventive and therapeutic services in relation to HIV, as well as vaccination and treatment in relation to COVID 19. Only in this way, with joint efforts, we can end the AIDS epidemic by the year 2.030. Get tested, too," Juventas' statement concludes.