TODAY, the community can avail of free HIV testing services as part of the nationwide recognition of National HIV Testing Day (NHTD).
Nonprofit organizations such as West Care and Guahan Project are partnering with the Department of Public Health and Social Services in providing free information and services for NHTD, according to DPHSS STD/HIV Program Supervisor Bernadette P. Schumann.
DPHSS, the National Association of People with AIDS, in partnership with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other public and private organizations across the country, are organizing NHTD activities around the theme “Take the Test. Take Control of HIV.”
“We’re having these services to let people know their status and make sure that people with HIV access care and make them live longer. Understanding HIV results, knowing their status and ensuring access to care are important,” Schumann explained.
She said the STD/HIV program is currently working with the nonprofit organizations to help them establish HIV rapid testing services so the community can opt to have their testing done outside the main DPHSS facility in Mangilao.
According to statistics, 238 HIV cases have been reported to DPHSS since 1985. Aside from that, according to Schumann, a rise in syphilis cases has been reported this year.
Syphilis and HIV co-morbidity exists, according to Schumann, and a person diagnosed with syphilis would be three to five times more likely to acquire HIV through unprotected sexual contact.
She recommends those who are getting tested for HIV also take a syphilis test.
The DPHSS STD/HIV program is offering both tests today at the Central Public Health facility in Mangilao, Room 156, first floor. Schumann said treatment and care is available for those who test positive for HIV or syphilis.
For information about testing and other STD/HIV program services, contact the Guam AIDS Hotline at 734-2437 or visit the program website.
