National HIV Testing Day
June 27, Friday
Goals of the day
This day focuses on:
* Increasing public awareness about HIV and AIDS
* Encouraging people to get tested
* Reducing stigma related to HIV status
* Expanding access to information, prevention, and treatment
History and organization
National HIV Testing Day was established in the United States in 1995 by the National Association of People with AIDS. Since then, it has been supported by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), healthcare institutions, and non-profit organizations.
How is it celebrated?
On this day across the country, the following activities take place:
* Free and anonymous HIV testing in clinics, mobile units, and pharmacies
* Educational events, lectures, and seminars
* Social media campaigns involving public figures and doctors
* Distribution of information about protection methods, prevention, and available resources
Why is this important?
Statistics show thousands of people live with HIV without knowing it. Early testing:
* Allows timely start of treatment
* Significantly reduces the risk of transmitting the virus to others
* Gives people the opportunity to live long and fulfilling lives
Interesting fact
Modern rapid HIV tests can provide results in just 20 minutes, and their accuracy, when used properly, exceeds 99 percent.