Rise in HIV Infections in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area Calls for Enhanced Testing
Over the last five years, the Helsinki Metropolitan Areas has seen a tenfold increase in reported HIV infections compared to the preceding five-year period. This increase is extremely concerning.
Most of these infections occur among individuals who use intravenous drugs. Within this group, it is likely that some individuals remain unaware of their infection and are inadvertently spreading it to others. HIV can be managed with proper treatment, enabling an HIV-positive individual to lead a healthy life.
(Intrauutiseen) When you encounter a client or patient with a history of substance abuse, do not hesitate to bring up HIV testing, regardless of the main reason for their visit. The test is straightforward and affordable, whereas managing another HIV infection is not.
(ulkoiseen uutiseen) Our professionals can help people who are at risk – due to substance abuse history or other factors – to get tested for HIV, regardless of the main reason for their visit. The test is straightforward and affordable, whereas managing another HIV infection is not.
How to Get Tested for HIV?
Rapid HIV tests are available at the sobering-up treatment station in Espoo as well as at the Linkki health advice and support centre during opening hours. This rapid test involves taking a small drop of blood from the fingertip and provides results in 60 seconds. In case of a positive result, further confirmation is sought through laboratory tests.
Referrals for laboratory-based HIV tests are provided by health care centres or other health services. The HIV test is conducted using a blood sample.
Contact Information:
- Sobering-Up Treatment Station, tel. 046 877 3678, available 24/7
- Linkki health advice and support centre, tel. 040 636 5083, Mon–Tue and Thu–Fri from 10.00–15.00, Wed from 12.00–20.00.
- Your own health centre
Further information: