HIV AWARENESS

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that damages and weakens the body's immune system, which is the system that helps your body fight off infection and disease. 

• Every 9.5 minutes, someone in the United States is infected with the HIV virus. Get the proper facts on how to prevent HIV, delay the onset of AIDS, and becoming a part of the solution. 
• 1 in 7 people don't know they have HIV. HIV is the virus that causes AIDS.
• Drug and alcohol use can lead to risky behaviors that can increase your exposure to HIV/AIDS.

Many people with HIV do not have any symptoms; the only way to be certain is to be tested. It is recommended that all teens and adults get tested, especially if they are at a greater risk of infections. For a list of risk factors, click here. 

STD Conversation Starters

Use these tips to start a conversation with your partner about getting tested for STD's (Sexually Transmitted Diseases).

• “STDs that are found and treated early are less likely to cause long-term problems.”
• “Getting tested is easy. Doctors and nurses can test your urine for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea, 2 of the most common STD's."
• "Getting tested can be fast too. For some HIV tests, you get your results within 20 minutes through a rapid test that pokes your finger."
• "If you want to get tested at home, you can buy a HIV home test online or at a store.” 
• "If you don't feel comfortable talking about STD's with your regular doctor, you can get tested at a clinic instead." 

 For more ideas, click here.

Personal Health Tools:

• HIV Testing: Questions for the doctor
• STD Testing: Conversation starters
• HIV Testing Site Locator
• HIV Testing Sites & Care Services Locator
• HIV Testing Office on Women's Health
• Add the HIV Testing Sites & Care Services Locator Widget to your website

testing for hiv and other std's is available at polk county public health. Please call our clinic to schedule an appointment.