National HIV Testing Day

Take The Test, Take Control

You've been meaning to do it for a while now. Life keeps happening, and days keep passing, but it's still something you know you should make a priority. HIV testing has come a long way. This year's theme is "Take the Test & Take the Next Step," which encourages individuals to go beyond just getting tested for HIV. It's not the scary, painful process you may imagine. Modern tests use a simple finger prick or swab and provide results in under 30 minutes. This year, make a plan to get tested on National HIV testing day. Take action, take control, and there's no better time than now to locate a testing site, walk in, get the quick and easy test, and have peace of mind knowing your status. You'll be glad you did.

What Is National HIV Testing Day?

You have probably seen the ads for free HIV testing day and wondered if you should get tested. The truth is everyone should be tested for HIV at least once. National HIV Testing Day is held each year on June 27th to raise awareness about the importance of HIV testing and encourage people to get tested. Even if you think you are at less risk of transmitting the virus, HIV testing is the only way to know your status. And the good news is, with modern treatment, HIV is now a manageable chronic condition. So, take an hour out of your day and get tested at one of the many free testing sites in your area.

Why Getting Tested For HIV Is Important?

National HIV Testing Day is June 27th, a reminder for all of us to get tested.

• Many people live with HIV for years without symptoms, so getting tested regularly is vital. Early diagnosis means early treatment and living well.
• Free and confidential testing options are available. Visit your local health department or community health center, or use an at-home testing kit. There are many ways to get tested on your schedule.
• Everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once. But some groups are at higher risk and should be tested more often, including sexually active gay or bisexual men, people who inject drugs, or those with multiple sex partners.
• Treatment for HIV is very effective and can reduce the amount of HIV in your body to undetectable levels, allowing you to stay healthy and prevent passing HIV to others. But treatment only works if you know your status.

On this HIV Testing Day, make your health a priority. Knowledge is power, so take control and learn your status. You deserve to live free of HIV, so take the first step and get tested.

HIV Testing Options

Getting tested for HIV is the only way to know your status for sure. There are a few options to choose from, so you can find what works for your situation.

• Rapid HIV tests use either blood or oral fluid samples to check for HIV antibodies. They provide results in 20 minutes while you wait. These tests are very accurate but may require a follow-up blood test to confirm a positive result. Rapid tests are ideal if you want quick results or have limited access to health care.
• Home HIV tests allow you to collect an oral fluid or blood sample yourself and then mail it to a lab for testing. They provide confidential results within a few days. Home tests can be more convenient but may have an additional cost.
• Standard HIV tests require a blood sample taken in the laboratory. The sample is sent to a lab to check for HIV antibodies. Results are usually available within a week or two. These tests may be free or low-cost, depending on your location and insurance coverage.

HIV testing is the gateway to prevention, care, and treatment. There are many resources available to help you through the process. You have the power to make a difference.

Frequently Asked Questions About HIV Testing

With National HIV Testing Day 2023 coming up, you probably have some questions about what the day means and how HIV testing works. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

1. How does HIV testing work?

• The most common HIV tests check for HIV antibodies in your blood or oral fluid. An "antibody" is a protein that your body produces in response to an infection. If antibodies to HIV are detected, it means you have been infected with HIV.
• There are several types of HIV tests, including blood tests (finger prick and vein withdrawal) and oral swab tests. They are accurate, ranging from 92-99% accurate at detecting HIV.
• Rapid HIV tests can provide results in as little as 20 minutes. Other tests may require a follow-up visit. If the initial test is positive, a confirmatory test is done to verify the result.
   

2. Who should get tested for HIV?

• Everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 should get tested for HIV at least once. People with certain risk factors should get tested more often.
• Sexually active gay and bisexual men
• People who have had unprotected sex with multiple partners
• Anyone diagnosed with an STD like chlamydia or gonorrhea
• IV drug users who share needles

 3. What happens during an HIV test?

• An HIV test is pretty simple. A small sample of blood or oral fluid is taken and tested for HIV antibodies or antigens. If HIV is detected, a confirmatory test is done to verify the results. The most common tests are

1. Blood tests like ELISA and Western Blot- A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm and tested for HIV antibodies.
2. Rapid oral fluid tests- An oral swab is used to collect fluid from your gums to test for HIV antibodies. Results are ready in minutes.
3. Home test kits- Provide a blood or oral sample at home and mailed for testing in the labs. Results come back in a few days.
    

4. Where to find an HIV Testing location?

• Look for a local testing center that offers HIV testing. You can use online resources like the CDC's GetTested tool or contact your local health department for information on testing locations near you.
• The testing center will inform you about when and how you can receive your test results. It's important to follow their instructions and inquire about the timeframe for receiving the results.

 5. What if my result is positive?

• Don't panic. A positive result means HIV antibodies were detected. See your doctor right away for a confirmatory test.
• If confirmed positive, the good news is HIV is a manageable condition. The sooner you start treatment, the better. Treatment can keep the virus suppressed and prevent transmission to partners. You can still live a long, healthy life with HIV.

Take Charge, Your Path To Health Starts Here

Knowing your status gives you valuable information to help you take control of your health and your future. Getting tested for HIV is quick and easy. So mark your calendar for June 27th and take action. On National HIV Testing Day 2023, plan to visit your local health department or community center and get tested. Find a free testing site near you, get the facts about your health, and walk out peacefully. You have so much amazing life ahead of you. This simple step can help you live it to the fullest, healthy, and strong. The power is in your hands. Get tested for yourself, your community, and your future. You've got this!