The new mobile testing unit is part of a project funded by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health. Finland's goal is to eliminate hepatitis C virus as a public health problem by 2027. The national project is coordinated and supported by the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL).
Hepatitis C is mainly transmitted through blood contact, for example through sharing injection equipment or unprotected sex. The project aims to increase low-threshold testing and treatment initiation, and prevent new infections, morbidity and deaths.
The mobile unit offers:
– free rapid testing for hepatitis C and HIV antibodies from a fingerstick blood sample
– distribution of clean injection equipment and contraceptives
– health advice and guidance for further treatment
– initiation of medical treatments for those infected
With the service, the wellness area wants to reach people at increased risk of exposure to hepatitis C and prevent infections. At the same time, the mobile unit improves the accessibility of services by bringing them directly to the clients' everyday environment.
The service will start next week on June 17.6th.
During the summer, the unit will operate on the same route every week. Operations will be developed based on customer experiences, and a new route plan will be drawn up for the autumn.
In the autumn, the service will also expand to Sysmä and Hartola.
Schedule and stops (weekdays 17.6.–31.8.2026)
Monday: Asikkala S-market 10 am–12 pm; Padasjoki S-market 13 pm–15 pm
Tuesday: Nastola S-market 10 am–12 pm; Iitti S-market 13 pm–15 pm
Wednesday: Hollola Prisma 10 am–12 pm; Järvelä S-market 13–15 p.m.
Thursday: Orimattila Prisma 10 am–12 pm; Heinola Market 1 pm–3 pm Friday: Apilakatu 8 8 am–10 am; Ahtiala S-market 11 am–1 pm; Nikulankuja 1 1:30 pm–2:30 pm.
Contact persons:
Tiina Lindqvist
nurse
Tel: 044 440 3159
Risto Pöllanen
practical nurse
Tel: 044 716 1065
The Päijät-Häme Welfare Area organizes social and health services for the residents of Päijät-Häme, as well as rescue services for the residents of the area. The Päijät-Häme Welfare Area includes Asikkala, Hartola, Heinola, Hollola, Iitti, Kärkölä, Lahti, Orimattila, Padasjoki and Sysmä. We take care of the health and safety of over 200 residents.
