Take pride in your health.
Did you know?
- As of 2022, nearly 1.2 million Americans were reported to be living with HIV.
- It is estimated that 13% of the people who live with HIV in the U.S. don't know they have it.
- While no vaccine exists yet, the availability of antiretroviral drugs and constantly improving treatment options now make it possible for an HIV patient to live a full and healthy life.
Source: HIV.gov
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 23, from 1:00 - 4:00 pm at the Annandale District Office
- Tuesday, June 24, from 2:00 - 6:00pm at the Springfield District Office
- Wednesday, June 25, from 1:00 - 4:00pm at the Joseph Willard Health Center
- Thursday, June 26, from 1:00 - 4:00pm at the Herndon Reston District Office
- Friday, June 27, from 8:00am - 12:00pm at the Mt. Vernon District Office
There will also be a limited amount of free Syphilis Self-Test kits to be given to partner(s) of clients who test positive for Syphilis.
Take pride in your health by knowing your status.