Free HIV tests in the district: protect yourself and others!

Free HIV tests in the district: protect yourself and others!

The HIV testing weeks are just around the corner, and numerous people in Bavaria will soon be able to benefit from an important offer. The health department in the Garmisch-Partenkirchen district will be taking part in this initiative from November 2nd to 30th, 2025. Citizens have the opportunity to be tested for HIV free of charge and anonymously. An important step because many may have experienced risk of HIV infection and are often hesitant to seek testing. How lra-gap.de reported, the uncertainty about possible infection can be extremely stressful. The test is the only way to get a clear answer and, if necessary, take early action.

The statistics are alarming: at the end of 2024, around 11,800 people were living with the HIV virus in Bavaria. While the number of reported new HIV diagnoses fell from 645 in 2023 to 586 in 2024, there remains a high risk that many people are unaware of their infection. This can have serious consequences, as undetected HIV infections can lead to illnesses typical of AIDS. The health department encourages examinations because early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve the course of the disease.

Global health problem

The problem of HIV is not only important regionally, but also globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) Around 40.8 million people worldwide are currently living with HIV, making the challenge enormous. In 2024, an estimated 630,000 people will die annually from HIV-related diseases, while 1.3 million people will become newly infected. While effective management is possible, there is currently no cure for HIV. We know that HIV attacks the immune system, increasing susceptibility to other diseases.

The WHO has clear goals by 2025: 95 percent of HIV-positive people should be diagnosed, 95 percent of those diagnosed should be provided with life-saving antiretroviral treatments, and 95 percent of them should achieve a suppressed viral load. Already in 2024, the rate was 87 percent of people who were aware of their status and 89 percent who were receiving antiretroviral therapy.

Local support

The health department offers comprehensive advice and is available to help anyone interested. To make an appointment for an HIV test, you can use the number 08821 / 751-500. Professionals are ready to provide support and educate the population about prevention and treatment options. Context and knowledge about HIV and AIDS are high in society, but testing and timely treatment remain the crucial aspects in managing the disease.

Take the chance and get tested - it could help protect yourself and others. When dealing with HIV, it is important to have the right hand and take responsibility for your own health.