Community-Based Prevention – Without Stigma
On May 19, in observance of World Hepatitis C Day, specialists providing low-threshold services at the Kėdainiai Primary Health Care Center organized an outreach event at the Raseiniai branch of the Lithuanian Red Cross Society’s shelter. During the event, members of the target group were given the opportunity to access the services provided free of charge and confidentially, as well as to undergo rapid testing for HIV and other infectious diseases. The event was attended by over 30 participants—residents of the shelter, specialists, and staff from the Raseiniai Social Services Center.
World Hepatitis C Day serves as a reminder of the importance of early diagnosis. Hepatitis C often has no obvious symptoms, so a person may be unaware of the infection for a long time. Getting tested early makes it possible to start treatment sooner, protect your own health and that of those around you, and reduce the risk of the disease spreading.
Specialists at the Kėdainiai Primary Health Care Center are implementing community initiatives through measures funded by the National Center for Addiction Treatment and the Kėdainiai District Municipality: “Strengthening Low-Threshold Services in the Kėdainiai and Raseiniai Municipalities,” “2026 Program for Ensuring the Provision of Low-Threshold Services in the Kėdainiai District.”
Such initiatives help increase access to care, strengthen the prevention of infectious diseases, and encourage people to take a more active role in managing their health. During these campaigns, not only are rapid tests administered, but consultations are also provided, information about treatment options is shared, and preventive measures are distributed.
The projects and programs implemented by the Kėdainiai Primary Health Care Center provide service recipients with access to in-person and mobile low-threshold services, which include:
▫️ needle and syringe exchange;
▫️ rapid testing;
▫️ distribution of preventive supplies;
▫️ counseling and education;
▫️ assistance with addiction prevention.
Taking care of your health starts with knowledge, open communication, and the courage to ask for help.
