A meeting of the interdepartmental commission for the prevention of HIV infection and venereal diseases was held at the Lepel District Executive Committee.

The main topic of discussion was the need to strengthen preventive and awareness-raising efforts among the population.

— Some people find out about their HIV status when the disease has already begun to manifest itself, and they do not pay attention to their risky behaviour. Timely diagnosis and commencement of treatment not only increase life expectancy and quality of life but also represent an important preventive component in curbing the spread of the infection, — noted Natalia Pobortseva, an epidemiologist at the Lepel District Centre for Hygiene and Epidemiology. Veronika Khombak, Deputy Chairperson of the District Executive Committee, emphasized:

— Only systematic awareness-raising efforts will help reduce the number of new HIV infections. Adolescents and young people must clearly understand the risks associated with unprotected sexual contact and drug use.