NPHC Recommends Preventive HIV, STI, and Viral Hepatitis Testing
NPHC Recommends Preventive HIV, STI, and Viral Hepatitis Testing
From May 19 to May 26, Europe marks the Spring Testing Week, a campaign aimed at raising awareness and knowledge about HIV, the benefits of testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and viral hepatitis B and C. The goal is to unite organizations in providing better opportunities for testing and timely treatment. The National Public Health Centre (NPHC) joins this initiative, reminding the public of the importance of prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment to prevent the progression of these infections and to protect others from transmission.
Disease is often diagnosed at advanced stage
According to the World Health Organization, 95% of people worldwide infected with hepatitis B or C are unaware of their infection. As for HIV, data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control indicates that more than half of people in the European Union and European Economic Area countries are diagnosed late, when the disease has already progressed, often several years after initial infection.
HIV, STIs, and viral hepatitis B and C are often asymptomatic, meaning that without testing, these infections can progress, lead to complications, and pose a risk of transmission to others, even unknowingly. Regular preventive testing is essential both for early detection of these diseases and for prevention. Based on individual risk factors, the public is encouraged to get tested regularly and consult with specialists for appropriate treatment if an infection is detected.
Although HIV is currently incurable, consistent and proper medication slows the progression of the disease, preventing complications such as AIDS, and maintaining good health and work capacity. Additionally, treatment reduces the transmission of the virus, thus protecting others from infection. In Lithuania, HIV treatment is covered by the Compulsory Health Insurance Fund.
Protection Against Viral Hepatitis B and C
Hepatitis B can be prevented through vaccination (children are vaccinated according to the vaccination schedule). Although there is no vaccine for hepatitis C, effective treatment, which is reimbursed by the Compulsory Health Insurance Fund, can cure the disease. Hepatitis C testing starts with a preliminary laboratory blood test (anti-HCV test), followed by confirmatory tests if necessary. Free hepatitis C testing is available for all residents born between 1945 and 1994 who are not in a high-risk group, as well as for those in risk groups. For more details on free hepatitis C testing, it is recommended to consult with a family doctor.
Where and How You Can Get Tested
HIV, STIs, and hepatitis B and C testing can be done at healthcare facilities or through self-test kits at home. Anonymous and free rapid screening tests, as well as consultations, are available at non-governmental organizations. Detailed information about HIV testing and available locations can be found here: NPHC HIV Testing or Test Finder.
NPHC specialists emphasize that a positive result from a rapid screening or self-test must be confirmed through laboratory testing, so it is necessary to consult a healthcare professional.
NPHC also invites you to participate in a survey to test your knowledge about HIV: Check Your Knowledge About HIV/AIDS.
For more information about HIV, STIs, and hepatitis B and C, visit the NPHC website: NPHC Infectious Disease Information.
European Testing Week
European Testing Week is initiated by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control in collaboration with other countries, taking place twice a year, in the spring and autumn, since 2013.
For more information about European Testing Week, visit:
- https://www.testingweek.eu/
- https://www.testingweek.eu/campaign-materials/etw-logos/
- https://www.facebook.com/EuroTestWeek
Last updated: 19-05-2025
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