Bergamo Launches โคExpanded HIV Prevention Effort following Success ofโค “Fast-Track City” Initiative
Bergamo, Italy – Health officials in Bergamo are โintensifying efforts to combat late HIV diagnoses and increase prevention measures, building on the momentum of the “Bergamoโ Fast-Track City” program. A series of events, โincluding school screenings and a theatrical performance, are underway to raise awareness and address persistent stigmas surrounding the virus.
The initiative comes as experts highlight a concerning trend of delayed diagnoses,especially amongโ heterosexual โmen aged 50-55 who may not perceive themselves at risk,and vulnerable populations like migrants and the homeless โwho face barriers to healthcare access. “The issue can also concernโค those who have run โฃthe risk only onceโ in their life,” explained โDr. Meli, a leading figure in theโ program.
While screening programs for Hepatitis C have been established for some time, a similar widespread approach hasn’t existed forโ HIV, despite the viruses sharing similar transmission routes and requiring earlyโ detection.
Since 2019, “Bergamo Fast-Track City” has reached over 20 schools,โข engaging โmore than 12,000 students andโ facilitating the screening of 13,000 individuals for HIV, Hepatitis C, syphilis, and, as of this year, Hepatitis B. โคThese efforts have led to the identification of 31โ new HIV cases, 51 cases of syphilis,โค 47 of โHepatitisโ C, and 36 of Hepatitis B. Crucially, the program also reconnected approximately 40 individuals with pre-existing diagnoses to vital health services.
Looking ahead, โofficials announced plans to expand access to testing further. “In 2026 we aim to make 1,500 rapid tests available in โขBergamo pharmacies,” stated Dr. โMeli, emphasizing the goal of widespread accessibility.
The program’s broader objectives include connecting individuals with treatment and providing โฃsupport to both people living with HIV and their families, aiming to improve quality of life.”we must fight stigma andโค prejudice with determination by promoting an inclusive and welcoming culture,” โDr. Meli added.
Tonight, high schools will stream the event “#cHIVuleconsexire – โฃNext Generation,” focused on prevention, and the Mascheroni high school auditorium will host the theater show ยซProPositiveโ 2.0ยป by Elena Di Cioccio. These events underscore the ongoing commitment to raising awareness and fostering โa more informed and supportive community in Bergamo.
