Test, Treat and Prevent HIV and Viral Hepatitis

European Testing Week is a campaign that mobilizes all of Europe to reinforce screening and promote the benefits of preventing HIV, viral hepatitis and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

This year, European HIV and Hepatitis Testing Week is taking place from the north to the south of the country, including the islands, from November 20 to 27. During these days, it will be possible to

• HIV screening;
• Hepatitis B Virus (HCV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) screening;
• other STI screenings, subject to availability;
• collection of preventive material, such as condoms and lubricants;
• advice and information on STIs and prevention. 

The tests are free, rapid, anonymous and confidential. The maps with the screening locations are available for consultation and dissemination: Portugal Map | Lisbon Map.

The initiative has been held biannually since 2013, in May and November, and marks its 10th anniversary with the 750 of European organizations that have already contributed.

The common goal is to strengthen sexual health literacy, as well as regular testing and early diagnosis, resulting in timely access to effective treatments.

There are still gaps in the diagnosis of these infections, which jeopardizes international strategies to eliminate HIV infection, viral hepatitis and other STIs as a serious public health problem by 2030.

This week of screening and prevention awareness is an opportunity to increase testing and empower people and communities to reduce the impact of stigma and discrimination.

Portugal has joined the initiative since it was first carried out, through GAT and, later, through the Community Screening Network, of which GAT is a promoter. The member organizations of the Community Screening Network and associations, municipalities, parish councils, come together and call for the importance of the offer and accessibility of these services and the removal of any barrier to accessing health care, including stigma and discrimination.