December 1st, World AIDS Day, serves as an important reminder of the need for continuous awareness about HIV, the promotion of prevention, and support for those living with the virus. HIV is not just a virus—it is a social issue closely linked to education, public health, and everyone’s right to dignified care. Despite medical progress and access to effective treatments, misinformation and social stigma remain obstacles to prevention and early diagnosis.
At Euromedica Group, we are committed to providing accurate information and reliable diagnostic services that help protect public health and serve as our strongest weapon against ignorance and fear.
What is HIV and what is AIDS?
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system by targeting CD4 cells, which are essential for the body’s defense.
AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the advanced stage of HIV infection and occurs only when there is no timely diagnosis and treatment.
Thanks to modern antiretroviral therapy, people living with HIV can now have a normal life expectancy and maintain their viral load at undetectable levels.
Modes of Transmission
HIV is transmitted exclusively through specific bodily fluids: blood, semen, vaginal fluids, anal secretions, and breast milk.
It is transmitted:
- Through unprotected sexual intercourse.
- Through sharing needles or other sharp instruments.
- From mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding without medical intervention.
It is not transmitted:
- Through hugging, shaking hands, or casual social contact.
- By sharing utensils, glasses, toilets, or swimming pools.
- By insects.
Accurate information dispels myths and helps eliminate the social stigma surrounding HIV.
Symptoms of HIV Infection
Symptoms vary from person to person and often go unnoticed.
Acute phase (a few weeks after infection):
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Rash
- Fatigue
- Swollen lymph nodes
Asymptomatic phase:
The infection may remain without visible symptoms for years.
Advanced stage (AIDS):
Appears only without treatment and is characterized by frequent or severe infections and general immune suppression.
Stigma – A Barrier Stronger Than the Virus Itself
Stigma and the fear of discrimination often discourage people from undergoing preventive testing or seeking support when needed.
This results in:
- delayed diagnosis,
- increased risk of transmission,
- psychological burden and social isolation.
Eliminating stigma is everyone’s responsibility. It begins with proper education, respect and inclusion.
Diagnosis at Euromedica Diagnostic Centers
Early diagnosis is the most important step for effective disease management.
At Euromedica diagnostic centers, we consider access to accurate and reliable testing an act of responsibility—both for the individual and for society. We offer:
- Reliable HIV testing using modern detection methods
- Absolute confidentiality
- Pre- and post-test counselling when needed
- Fast delivery of results
Treatment
Although there is no cure that completely eliminates HIV, modern medicine provides extremely effective solutions. Contemporary antiretroviral therapy (ART) allows:
- Control of the virus to undetectable levels.
- Full protection of the immune system.
- Prevention of transmission when viral load is undetectable (U=U: Undetectable = Untransmittable).
Treatment is always prescribed by specialised physicians and requires regular monitoring.
Prevention – Our Strongest Shield
HIV prevention is based on simple yet highly effective practices:
- Use of condoms in every sexual encounter.
- Regular testing, especially for individuals with higher risk factors.
- PrEP: Pre-exposure prophylaxis, when indicated.
- PEP: Post-exposure prophylaxis within 72 hours and with medical guidance.
- Avoiding the sharing of needles or sharp instruments.
Awareness, early diagnosis, and treatment have transformed HIV from a life-threatening disease into a chronic, manageable condition. HIV does not define anyone’s identity. People living with the virus deserve respect, care, support, and equal opportunities.
Let us use World AIDS Day to reinforce solidarity, respect, and equal access to information and healthcare services.
At the Euromedica Group, we consistently continue to provide high-quality services with respect, scientific accuracy, and dedication to promoting public health. As part of the Corporate Social Responsibility Program, the Euromedica Group offers a special Sexually Transmitted Diseases package at a preferential price. Specifically, those interested can receive it at the special price of €35, without the need for a doctor’s referral!
