June 27th is National HIV Testing Day. HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus and it weakens a person’s immune system by destroying cells that fight disease. Approximately 1.1 million people in the United States have HIV and about 1 in 7 are unaware of their status. Although there is no cure for HIV, there are effective medications that slow the progression of the disease and keep the patient and his/her partner(s) healthy for many years.
- Get Tested
- Know Your Status
- Seek Treatment (if HIV Positive)
The theme for this year’s National HIV Testing Day is “Doing It My Way”. The only way to know your HIV status is to get tested. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested at least once as a part of your routine healthcare. If you are at high risk for contracting HIV, you should be test at least once a year. You are at high risk if you:
- Have sex with an HIV-infected partner.
- Are a man having sex with another man.
- Have been diagnosed with another sexually transmitted disease.
- Inject drugs and/or share hypodermic needles
We urge you to get tested in a way that is comfortable for you. There are so many ways to get tested for HIV—at home, at the doctor’s office, with a friend. Find the best way for YOU. Many HIV tests now are quick, free, and painless. HIV screening from a healthcare provider is usually covered by health insurance without a copay. If you don’t have health insurance, some testing sites offer free testing.
KNOW YOUR STATUS! Visit https://go.usa.gov/xmm6E to locate a testing site near you.
If you have questions or would like a complimentary informational session with one of our consultant pharmacists, click on “Contact Us” and complete the form or email info@medsplusconsulting.com.