Bulgaria Launches Free AIDS Testing Campaign on 'Love Day'

According to preliminary data of the Health Ministry, over 84 000 have used in 2011 anonymous and free AIDS testing. Photo by Sofia Photo Agency

On St Valentine's Day, Bulgarians will be able to get free testing for HIV and AIDS in 38 stations across the country.

The initiative is part of the national informational anti-AIDS campaign of the Prevention and Control of HIV/AIDS Program, financed by the Health Ministry, Darik radio reported Tuesday.

19 stations will be used only during the campaign while the other 19 will be permanent.

The campaign also includes health discussions with high school and college students and the distribution of free condoms and educational brochures.

According to preliminary data of the Health Ministry, over 84 000 have used in 2011 anonymous and free AIDS testing and another 63 000 used the HIV prevention services.

The number of people officially registered with HIV in Bulgaria is 1 486. 13 new cases have been registered since the beginning of 2012 – 10 men and 3 women, ages 24 to 59.

We need your support so Novinite.com can keep delivering news and information about Bulgaria! Thank you!