June 27th is National HIV Testing Day (NHTD). First observed in 1995, this is a day to encourage people to get tested for HIV, know their status, and get linked to care and treatment.
The theme for 2023, "Take the Test and Take the Next Step", highlights that if we are aware of our HIV status, we can find the best options that will help us stay healthy. Anyone receiving a negative test result can access HIV prevention tools such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), condoms, and other sexual health services, including vaccines and testing for sexually transmitted infections. People who receive a positive test result can immediately begin HIV treatment to stay healthy. All these services are available at The Living Bridge Center Ryan White HIV Clinics in the North Georgia Health District and at our Health Departments in Cherokee, Fannin, Gilmer, Murray, Pickens, and Whitfield counties.
No matter how you test for HIV, no matter your test results, take the next step!
Note: The Living Bridge Center (TLBC) Ryan White HIV Clinic is celebrating National HIV Testing Day by hosting FREE HIV Testing, Condoms, and PrEP Education on Friday, June 23rd, from 8 AM to 12 PM! It's all happening at the Whitfield County Health Department, located at 800 Professional Boulevard, Dalton, GA 30720. Go through the main door of the health department on the upper level. The first 15 people to join them that day will get a Goody Bag! Learn more here on our website at nghd.org/tlbc-home.