A large red bow in the vineyard – it has been visible below the fortress in Würzburg since the beginning of the week. The reason for this is the 35th World AIDS Day, which takes place on Friday. The ribbon is intended to draw attention to the day of action.
Last year, 27 new HIV diagnoses were reported in Lower Franconia. According to the HIV/AIDS advisory service, this number has remained relatively stable in recent years. Even if the disease cannot be cured to date, those affected have the chance of a normal life with the help of appropriate medication.
Almost 1,300 people live with HIV in the region – but around ten percent probably don’t know anything about their infection, according to the HIV/AIDS advisory service.
This year, the advice center carried out 287 HIV and syphilis tests and provided over 400 risk consultations. Due to high demand, the offering has been expanded: Home tests for chlamydia/gonorrhea are now also offered.