From November 25 to 29, 2024, Odessa actively participated in the initiative «HIV in Europe» by conducting the European HIV Testing Week.

Under the guidance of the Department of Health and local medical institutions, the city offered free and confidential HIV testing for all interested individuals.

Rapid tests were used for screening, providing results in just 15 minutes. The city budget funded the purchase of these tests through the “Health” program.

During the testing week, 1,192 individuals were screened, with 8 testing positive for HIV.

Those with positive results were referred to the City AIDS Center for further diagnosis and medical assistance, including antiretroviral therapy.

Modern medications provided at no cost help minimize the viral load in patients.

Odessa has achieved significant success in HIV treatment, with 96% of patients on therapy having an undetectable viral load, allowing them to lead fulfilling lives.

These results reflect the effectiveness of the Fast Track Cities initiative, which Odessa joined by signing the Paris Declaration.

Odessa's efforts in combating HIV have garnered recognition on a global scale.