FREE HIV testing available on World AIDS Day, Dec. 1

 

AMERICU — There are an estimated 34 million people who have HIV. Despite the virus only being identified in 1984, more than 35 million people have died of HIV or AIDS, making it one of the most destructive pandemics in history.

Today, scientific advances have been made in HIV treatment, there are laws to protect people living with HIV and we understand so much more about the condition. Despite this, people do not know the facts about how to protect themselves and others, and stigma and discrimination remain a reality for many people living with the condition.

World AIDS Day is important because it reminds the public that HIV has not gone away – there is still a vital need to raise money, increase awareness, fight prejudice and improve education.

It is held on Dec. 1 each year and is an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, show their support for people living with HIV and to remember the people who have died.

The West Central Health District is participating by offering free HIV testing from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Dec. 1 at  the Sumter County Health Department, 1602 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Suite 100, Americus 229-924-3637

Testing is easy, confidential and results are available in about 30 minutes. For more information, visit www.ColumbusHealth.com.