Free HIV tests available in December

HAYDEN - In recognition of World AIDS Day on Dec. 1, Panhandle Health District will provide free Rapid HIV testing for two days during the month at all its offices in the five northern counties.

The number of tests is limited, so appointments are necessary. Free tests will be available at PHD offices in:

· Sandpoint, 1050 Michigan, on Monday, Dec. 2, and Thursday, Dec. 5. For an appointment, call 208-263-5159;

· St. Maries, 137 N. 8th St., on Monday, Dec. 2, and Monday, Dec. 16. For an appointment, call 208-245-4556;

· Hayden, 8500 N. Atlas Rd., on Wednesday, Dec. 4 and Friday, Dec. 6. For an appointment, call 208-415-5270;

· Kellogg, 114 Riverside, on Friday, Dec. 6 and Friday, Dec. 13. For an appointment, call 208-786-7474;

· Bonners Ferry, 7402 Caribou, on Friday, Dec. 6, and Friday, Dec. 13. For an appointment, call 208-267-5558.

The Rapid HIV test is similar to a pregnancy test, using blood from a finger stick instead of urine. It provides results in about 15 minutes. If test results are positive, blood will be drawn from the patient for a second test for confirmation.

As of June 2013, 78 people with HIV and 67 with AIDS were living in the five northern counties.

Early detection reduces the potential that a patient may unknowingly spread HIV.

“The more people who test and take care of their health, the better,” said Lisa Hylsky, who coordinates PHD’s sexually transmitted disease and HIV programs. “Studies show that people who know they’re HIV-positive take more precautions.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that one in five people living with HIV today are unaware that they’re HIV-positive. The CDC recommends that people from age 13 through 64 include an HIV test in their annual physical exams.

HIV is passed on through contact with the blood, semen, vaginal fluids or breast milk of an infected person. Unprotected sex with an untested partner places a person at high risk of HIV exposure. Sharing syringes and needles can expose a person to blood infected with HIV. Infected women can pass the virus to their babies during pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding.

A long-term monogamous sexual relationship with a tested partner is the best prevention to HIV exposure. Latex condoms and not sharing syringes and needles also offer some protection. People may be infected with HIV and not know it. HIV infection doesn’t exhibit visible signs and it may take years to develop into AIDS. Only an HIV test can confirm that a person is not infected.

For information on HIV testing and counseling, visit www.phd1.idaho.gov