Here’s why you should get tested for HIV

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – June 27 is National HIV Testing Day, and we spoke with professionals at Hope Health Aiken to find out why you should get tested regularly for HIV.

According to the CDC, the state of Georgia ranks fourth in the United States for HIV diagnoses, with more than 35,000 people diagnosed in 2021.

But health experts say the biggest problem is the number of cases that go undetected.

“You need to know your status first in order to prevent the spread of HIV and educate yourself on how to protect yourself because that’s the main goal.” said Jarquita Lawson, community manager for Hope Health Aiken and Orangeburg. “Protecting yourself is the first step to protecting your partner.”

Another problem health experts see is the stigma surrounding testing.

“Especially here in the Bible Belt, they want you not to talk about it. But if you educate, then when the time comes when the younger, you know, young adults want to become sexually active, then they can protect themselves in the right way,” Lawson said.

According to Lawson, if you have a sexually transmitted infection, you are 80% more likely to contract HIV.

“That’s why it’s important to make sure you take your medications, go to the doctor regularly, and, if you have symptoms of an STI, get this treatment as soon as possible,” Lawson said.

HIV tests are administered by pricking the finger and placing the blood in a solution. Results are ready in a minute.

“You can live your life with HIV. Your life does not end. It’s more of a fresh start,” Lawson said.

The CDC recommends that everyone, regardless of sexual activity, get tested for HIV at least once a year.

WHERE TO FIND A TEST SITE:

8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Impact of the Augusta project
• Department of Public Health Laney Walker Clinic
• Columbia County Department of Health
• Medical Associates More

8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

• Burke County Health Department

8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Augusta Equality Clinic is by appointment

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