National Programme for HIV and Other Sexually Transmitted Infections (NPHS)
The NPHS follows on from 25 years of successful prevention work. For the first time, other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are being included in addition to HIV. The principal aim is to reduce the number of new infections with HIV and other STIs and to avoid consequences with an adverse effect on health. At its meeting on 25 of August 2021, the Federal Council prolonged the current NPHS by two years until the end of 2023.
HIV and other sexually transmitted infections are most frequently spread through unprotected sex. The NPHS seeks to minimise such infections and ensure that, should they occur, they are identified and treated as swiftly as possible.
Axis 2 is directed towards people with risky behaviours in an environment where HIV and other STIs are widespread. Read more about the different projects here.
Thanks to advances in the treatment of HIV, infected people who are on therapy and have an undetectable viral load do not pass on HIV. They can live a largely normal life.
HIV/STI testing without counselling is an opportunity missed for prevention. The FOPH encourages doctors and patients to discuss sexuality issues in the course of HIV/STI testing.
Transmitted diseases do not stop at national borders. Efforts against HIV and other STIs must have an international dimension. Migration, international mobility and networking call for global measures.
