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MDCH Recognizes June 27 as National HIV Testing Day
June 24, 2011
June 24, 2011
In an effort to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS, the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) is recognizing June 27 as National HIV Testing Day.
For the estimated quarter of a million Americans who are unaware of their HIV infection, knowing their status could save their lives and the lives of others. More than 84,000 people are tested for HIV every year at publicly supported sites in Michigan, and approximately 400 test positive for HIV. As of April 2011, the MDCH data indicates 19,500 individuals are currently living with HIV. Of those, 14,614 have been diagnosed.
In recognizing National HIV Testing Day, MDCH embraces the national public awareness campaign designed to educate the public about HIV counseling, testing and referral, and to encourage more people to assess their risk of HIV infection. The National Testing Day theme, "Take the Test, Take Control" was chosen to motivate individuals to get tested and seek treatment if it's positive and assess their risk and change behaviors that put them at risk if results are negative.
"This year marks 30 years since the first reported cases of HIV, and it is important that we not become complacent," said Olga Dazzo, director of the MDCH. "One of the most important things people can do is get tested."
Testing for HIV, which is available throughout the state, can be anonymous and confidential. Testing is conducted by a traditional blood draw finger stick or by using a swab to gently collect cells in the cheek and gum area inside the mouth. Both methods provide quick, accurate, and painless results. A rapid HIV test - which provides preliminary test results in only 20 minutes - is available at some sites as well.
National HIV Testing Day provides the opportunity for local health departments and community-based organizations to work in collaboration to provide HIV testing opportunities for at-risk populations. These opportunities are provided at mobile clinics, as well as outreach efforts at bars, parks, churches and community-wide events. Events are planned across Michigan to raise awareness and promote HIV testing among Michigan residents.
For a testing site in your area or a list of events, please call (800) 872-AIDS or go to http://www.aidspartnership.org/files/1313/0875/5238/NTD_Event_Schedule_final_2011.doc. For more information about HIV/AIDS, go to www.michigan.gov/hivstd.