Each year, June 27 is recognized as National HIV Testing Day to call attention to the importance of knowing your status as well as learning about options for HIV prevention and treatment. HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is the virus that can cause AIDS if it isn’t treated.
The only way to know for sure if you have HIV, is to get tested. This is also true for other a sexually transmitted infections (STIs), like syphilis, gonorrhea, or chlamydia. People who have HIV or an STI may still feel healthy and be unaware that they have an infection. However, these infections can cause serious health problems and be spread to others if left untreated.
If you are sexually active, STI testing is one of the most important things you can do to protect your health. When you know your status, you have powerful information to keep you and your partners healthy. Most infections can be cured, and all are treatable.
Throughout the last week of June, the Fairfax County Health Department is offering free HIV and STI testing and education at our health clinics. If needed, care and treatment support will also be offered. Free walk-in testing is available only at the following times and locations:
- Monday, June 24, 1 - 4:30pm. Annandale Clinic.
- Tuesday, June 25, 2 - 6:30pm. Springfield Clinic.
- Wednesday, June 26, 1 - 4:30pm. Joseph Willard Health Center.
- Thursday, June 27, 1 - 4:30pm. Herndon Reston Clinic.
- Friday, June 28, 8am - 12pm. Mt. Vernon Clinic.
Appointments are not necessary. However, please plan to arrive no later than 1 hour before closing time.
The Northern Virginia STI/HIV Task Force is also hosting pop-up testing events throughout Northern Virginia. The Task Force is a group of organizations, including the Fairfax County Health Department, dedicated to preventing HIV infections and supporting people living with HIV/AIDS in Northern Virginia. Learn more about the pop-up testing events in English and Spanish.