More Than 800 People Take Part in HIV Prevention Campaigns in Kokshetau

August 25, 2026

Since the beginning of the year, 11 HIV prevention campaigns have been held in Kokshetau, involving more than 800 people. Participants showed particular interest in the opportunity to take a free and confidential rapid HIV test, which was used by 210 people.

According to Rustem Moldagali, Acting Chief Physician of the Akmola Regional HIV Prevention Center, most of the campaigns are held in busy public places, including parks, embankments, and shopping centers. In this area, the Center actively cooperates with Youth Health Centers and educational institutions.

“Such campaigns generate considerable interest among the public, so we plan to continue this practice in the future,” said the head of the medical organization.

During the outreach activities, specialists not only provide counseling but also offer rapid HIV testing. The test systems used make it possible to obtain results within a short period of time without lengthy waiting.

As Assel Baltabayeva, Head of the Center’s Prevention Department, explained, fourth-generation rapid HIV tests are used during the campaigns.

“They make it possible to detect the virus at earlier stages by identifying not only antibodies but also the p24 antigen,” the specialist explained.

The Center’s specialists note that HIV is now transmitted mainly through sexual contact. Therefore, it is important to make informed and responsible decisions about one’s sexual behavior. Healthcare professionals recommend delaying sexual debut, maintaining mutual fidelity in relationships, and using condoms during all types of sexual activity.

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