Free HIV testing offered in advance of National HIV Testing Day

HIV is a virus spread through certain body fluids that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the CD4 cells, often called T cells. Over time, HIV can destroy so many of these cells that the body can’t fight off infections and disease.

While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that all Americans be screened for HIV as a part of routine health care, many Americans have never been tested or are not being tested as often as recommended.

According to national surveys by the Kaiser Family Foundation 43 percent of Americans report never having been tested, and another 37 percent say they have not been tested in a year or longer. With early diagnosis and treatment, someone with HIV can live a healthy normal lifespan.

In the lead up to National HIV Testing Day on June 27, Eastern Idaho Public Health District is offering free and confidential rapid HIV testing to the public. This years theme is “Doing it.”

A simple poke of the finger is all it takes, and a 20-minute wait to get the results. The test result is confidential.

Eastern Idaho Public Health District Nurse Nikki Sayer said it’s all about prevention, and education is provided on how to reduce the risks of getting or spreading HIV.

“The earlier that we find the HIV the virus that causes aids, the earlier we can intervene medically and a lot of people can live long and health lives after being diagnosed with HIV with the correct medical management,” Sayer said.

Using condoms and limiting your number of partners is also suggested to stay safe when having sex.

Sayer also recommends being tested for hepatitis C. According to the CDC, hepatitis C is a blood-borne virus. Most people become infected with the hepatitis C virus by sharing needles or other equipment to inject drugs.

To find out more about when and where to schedule an appointment visit eiph.idaho.gov.