By Reda Gilytė, LRT TV, LRT.lt.
Lithuania has seen a rise in HIV cases since 2022, largely due to infections diagnosed among foreign nationals, according to public health officials.
Of 400 foreigners who have tested positive for HIV in Lithuania, 70% were diagnosed in the past three years, the National Public Health Centre reported. Most recent cases involve citizens from Ukraine who have sought medical help and consultations from NGOs and state institutions.
“We have observed a larger number of new HIV cases in Lithuania over the past three years,” said Kęstutis Rudaitis, a public health specialist. “This has been influenced by the geopolitical situation and the influx of people, particularly from Ukraine.”
In Vilnius, a testing centre offers free and anonymous HIV checks in three languages. About 10 people come in for testing daily, and on some days one or two positive cases are identified. Patients are then directed to treatment options regardless of nationality.
Foreigners can access treatment in Lithuania if they meet certain conditions, including having a residence permit, a registered address, and legal employment.
Read more: LRT.LT
