Sespa intensifies prevention and testing actions for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis during the Diversity Fair
The population had access to rapid testing, vaccines, medications, and guidance on combined prevention
The State Department of Public Health of Pará (Sespa), through the Health Surveillance Directorate/Department of Transmissible Diseases (DCDT), in partnership with the 1st Regional Health Center (CRS), Municipal Coordination of STIs/Aids and Viral Hepatitis of Belém, Casa Dia, and civil society organizations, intensified actions for the prevention and early diagnosis of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B and C during the Diversity Fair. The event, which is part of the programming for the 23rd LGBTI+ Parade of Pará, took place this Saturday (27) at Praça Waldemar Henrique in Belém and was open to the entire population.
The initiative expanded access to rapid and free testing, especially aimed at the LGBTI+ community, in addition to the distribution of internal and external condoms, lubricants, HIV self-tests, and educational materials. Guidance services and access to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) were also offered as a strategy for HIV prevention.
According to the state coordinator of STIs/Aids, Andrea Miranda, the action brought health services closer to the population. “People were able to update their vaccination schedule against hepatitis B, HPV, and the triple viral vaccine, according to their age group, and receive antiretroviral medication when indicated. These actions ensure access to prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment, focusing on equity and respect for diversity,” she highlighted.
For Caroline Figueiredo, state coordinator of Viral Hepatitis, the participation of the state government reinforces the commitment to comprehensive health. “We are intensifying actions for the LGBTI+ community, but the alert is for the entire population, showing the importance of combined prevention and access to the services offered,” she stated.
Monitoring and Surveillance
The cases detected during the action will be monitored to ensure epidemiological investigation, appropriate treatment, and continuous monitoring. The initiative is part of the state strategy to eliminate HIV, syphilis, and viral hepatitis as public health problems by 2030, in alignment with the goals of the World Health Organization (WHO).
Prevention with Inclusion
Public servant Francisco Amaral, who learned about the initiative through social media, took the opportunity to get tested and receive medications. “I found the action very interesting and easily accessible for the population,” he commented.
Drag queen Bunny das Coxinhas highlighted the educational role of the mobilization. “Prevention is not just for the LGBTI+ community, but also for heterosexuals. Every form of care is fundamental, and this space helps break taboos, clarify doubts about PrEP, testing, and types of condoms,” she emphasized.
The action reinforces Sespa's commitment to public health policies based on scientific evidence and respect for human rights, promoting inclusion, comprehensive care, and prevention for all.
Text: Ascom Sespa
