Take the Test and Take Control -- 6.25.2013
Columbus Public Health – Press Release
FOR TUESDAY, JUNE 25, 2013
Contact: Jose Rodriguez (614) 604-5025 [email protected]
Tyler Termeer (614) 688-7806 [email protected]
Free Walk In HIV Tests Offered in Recognition of National HIV Testing Day
Central Ohio HIV Planning Alliance Urges Residents to “Take the Test and Take Control.”
The Central Ohio HIV Planning Alliance is offering free HIV tests and awareness events in recognition of National HIV Testing Day on June 27.
Local National HIV Testing Day events include:
June 26
Noon-5 p.m. – Free walk in HIV and STD testing
Columbus Public Health, 240 Parsons Ave.
June 27
9 a.m.-5 p.m. – Free walk in HIV and STD testing
AIDS Healthcare Foundation, 815 W. Broad St.-Suite 350
*Food and door prizes available
5-8 p.m. – Free HIV and STD testing
AIDS Resource Center Ohio – 2 locations: 4400 N. High St.-Suite 300 and 1780 E. Broad St.
“Getting tested and taking control of your HIV status can help you live a longer, healthier and more productive life,” says Columbus Public Health Commissioner Dr. Teresa Long. “Additionally, studies show that managing HIV infection, is a necessary step to protect your health and that of your partners, so it also helps prevent new infections.”
Nearly 1.2 million people in the U.S. are living with HIV, and almost one in five don’t know they are infected. Locally as of 2011, more than 4,000 residents in our region are living with HIV. Additionally, Columbus Public Health estimates about 5,100 people are living with the virus, including those who do not know it.
In addition to National HIV Testing Day events, many local clinics and testing locations offer free HIV tests year round with some locations offering confidential or anonymous HIV tests.
For more information on local National HIV Testing Day events, visit publichealth.columbus.gov or preventhivstdohio.com or call the Ohio HIV/STD Hotline at 1-800-332-2437.
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