The National HIV Testing Week is coordinated by the Urban Coalition for HIV/AIDS Services and aims to reduce late diagnosis by ensuring more people become aware of their current HIV status.

Talk HIV, test HIV, treat HIV has been introduced to support dialogue in order to encourage people and populations at higher risk to ask for an HIV test to ensure more HIV tests are offered to people at higher risk, and to make sure people who are HIV positive are participating in regular and on-going HIV medical care.

(Halifax County Public Health System provides free, confidential HIV testing. For more information about HIV testing and education, call 252-583-5021)

Halifax County Health Director Cardra Burns says, “At least one in every five people living with HIV in the United States is unaware that they are HIV positive. In 2012, Halifax County ranked 12th for new HIV cases and 10th for new AIDS cases in North Carolina.” When people are diagnosed late with HIV, delaying access to treatment, they are more likely to suffer with health complications and more likely to pass on HIV to others.

In contrast, the majority of those who are diagnosed early — soon after infection — are engaged in regular HIV care and are prescribed antiretroviral treatment in a timely manner can live healthy lives. The likelihood of them passing on HIV to others is significantly reduced. Research has shown that most people will accept an HIV test when encouraged.

So, beyond emboldening individuals to ask for a test, the testing week aims to inspire healthcare professionals and testing program managers to offer HIV tests when deemed appropriate and necessary. To find out more about the National HIV Testing Week USA and to access a range of materials and ideas for holding testing and educational events visit the National HIV Testing Week USA website.