December 1 marks this important day, and this year the focus is on youth, as well as on informing about HIV, sexual and reproductive health, including issues related to giving birth to healthy children.
As part of the campaign, lectures, seminars, outreach events by mobile clinics, and informational campaigns about HIV, testing, and modern treatment methods are planned. Participation in these events will help maintain health and contribute to the fight against HIV.
As of October 1, there have been 15,183 registered cases of HIV in Kyrgyzstan. Among those infected, more than 60% are young people aged 20 to 39, with a large number of cases recorded in Bishkek and the Chui region. The primary mode of transmission of the virus is sexual.
The center also noted that late detection of HIV continues to be observed in the country; however, testing is now available to everyone: it is conducted quickly, confidentially, and free of charge for certain categories of citizens.
The director of the center, Umutkan Chokmorova, emphasized that knowing one's HIV status is the first step towards prevention and treatment. "We urge everyone to get tested and take advantage of the available resources for medical assistance and support," she added.
