Ferrara and Florence launch HIV/STI screening campaigns in May 2026

On 13 May 2026 Ferrara hosted a “Screening Night” organized by the city’s Permanent Working Table against AIDS and the municipal Department of Equal Opportunities. The free, anonymous rapid test combined HIV and syphilis screening for 148 participants, despite cold and rainy weather. Volunteers from the local hospital, university nursing students, the Red Cross, AVIS, and other community groups helped run the event. City assessor for Equal Opportunities Angela Travagli said, “Promoting the protection and knowledge of one’s health status is key to preventing sexually transmitted infections and must be accompanied by constant awareness of healthy lifestyles.”

From 18 to 25 May 2026 Florence will host the Spring European Testing Week, a continent‑wide initiative focused on HIV, hepatitis and other sexually transmitted infections. The week‑long programme brings together third‑sector organisations and municipal officials to provide free testing, information and prevention services, continuing the collaborative effort seen in Ferrara.

Both events underscore Italy’s local commitment to expanding access to sexual health screening and reducing stigma around HIV and other STIs.