June 15, 2006
The Center for Disease Control estimates that between 180,000 and 280,000 people nationwide are HIV-positive, but are unaware of their status. There are over 1.2 million people living with HIV/AIDS in the US (2005).
HIV counseling and testing enables people with HIV to take steps to protect their own health and that of their partners and helps people who are HIV-negative get the information they need to stay uninfected. An individual can be infected, yet show no symptoms for five to ten years, but still transmit the virus to their partners. An HIV test is the only way to know your HIV status.
Risk factors for exposure to HIV can be any of the following:
• unprotected sex
• multiple partners
• history of having had an STD (sexually transmitted disease)
• engaging in sexual activities while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs
• sharing needles
The Circle of Care project, within the Community Health and Wellness Department of YKHC, introduced the HIV 20-minute rapid test to Alaska on National HIV Testing Day in 2003. The Circle of Care continues to offer risk assessment and risk reduction counseling and the HIV rapid test and is available without charge.
On Tuesday, June 27th, 2006 the HIV rapid test will be offered on a walk-in basis at the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta Regional Hospital from 9am-5pm. Call Carl Evans, Circle of Care Project Coordinator, at 543-6486 for more information.
The Bethel Family Clinic also offers the rapid test. Call 543-3773 for more information.
The Bethel Health Clinic. Public Health offers the send out test. Call 543-2110 for more information.Take control. Get tested for HIV. Know your HIV status.