HIV testing

The HIV epidemic in the European Union and European Economic Area shows one persistent trend: almost every second person diagnosed with HIV is a so-called late presenter in an advanced stage of HIV infection when their immune system already starts to fail.

This high proportion of late diagnoses observed during the last decade suggests problems with access to, and uptake of, HIV testing and counselling in many countries.

Providing antiretroviral therapy at the early stages of HIV infection allows people with HIV to live longer and healthier lives, and reduces the risk of transmitting HIV to others.

A quick and simple blood test will tell if one is infected or not – knowledge that can help protect their own health and that of others.

Why is testing important? 

• There is no cure for HIV but early diagnosis allows access to lifesaving treatment. At the same time, effective treatment leads to an undetectable viral load and this practically eliminates the risk of transmitting HIV further
• Early diagnosis prolongs healthy life and reduces cost to the healthcare system;
• To protect partners and unborn children: HIV transmission can be prevented once status is known.

Where to test?

 With the European Test Finder, it only takes a few seconds to locate a testing site near you.