World AIDS Day is observed on 1 December. The HIV/AIDS problem remains current, as the number of HIV infections in Poland is steadily increasing. From 1985 to the end of September 2013, more than 17,000 HIV infections were detected in Poland.

It is estimated that around 35,000 Poles are living with the virus, and one in two people living with HIV does not know they are infected and may unknowingly infect others. Contrary to popular belief, everyone may be at risk of HIV infection, regardless of age, sex, sexual orientation, religion or race.

Testing for the virus can help detect infections earlier, making it possible to start antiretroviral (ARV) therapy at the appropriate time.

World AIDS Day observances give people around the world an opportunity to unite in the fight against HIV, show their support for people living with HIV and commemorate those who have died of AIDS. The international symbol of remembrance and solidarity with people living with HIV is the red ribbon.

More information is available on the website of the National AIDS Centre. More information about World AIDS Day

HIV tests can be performed free of charge and anonymously at Consultation and Diagnostic Points. If you say that you have travelled from far away and ask for a rapid test, it will be performed using a few drops of blood collected by pricking your finger. The result is available within a few minutes.

Consultation and Diagnostic Points in Lower Silesia

  • Consultation and Diagnostic Point at the Multispecialist Hospital SPZOZ, 11/12 Lubańska Street in Zgorzelec. Telephone: (75) 77 22 959, (75) 77 22 838. Open on Tuesdays: 12:30–14:30
  • Consultation and Diagnostic Point at Wrocław Health Centre SP ZOZ, 2 Wszystkich Świętych Street (a side street off św. Mikołaja). Telephone: (71) 356-07-80. The point’s website, Podwale-siedem, includes a map showing the new premises. Open Monday to Friday, 16:00–20:00
  • Diagnostic and Consultation Point at the TRR NZOZ Specialist Medical Clinic, 74 Podwale Street, office 23. Telephone: (71) 342-14-13. Open Mondays 9:00–13:00 and Thursdays 9:00–13:00
  • Consultation and Diagnostic Point at the Infectious Diseases Ward in Wałbrzych, 4 Batorego Street (entrance from the Infectious Diseases Clinic). Telephone: (74) 648 98 87. Open Wednesdays 15:00–18:00
  • Consultation and Diagnostic Point at the Provincial Hospital Centre of the Jelenia Góra Valley, 6 Ogińskiego Street. Telephone: (75) 753-74-09. Open Wednesdays 15:00–19:00 and Fridays 15:00–19:00

(information: Sanepid Bolesławiec/ii)