June 27th - National HIV Testing Day - Do You Know Your HIV Status?

Too many Americans are unaware of their HIV status.  In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in five Americans are HIV-positive and is unaware they are infected. This means that those infected with HIV are not getting medical treatment and are potentially infecting others. Each year on June 27^th, the New Jersey AIDS/HIV/STD Hotline joins with other prevention organizations across the country to observe National HIV Testing Day (NHTD).   

The current recommendation is that all individuals between the ages of 13 and 64 be routinely tested for HIV infection; testing should be part of your annual physical exam. Testing is the only way to know if you have the HIV virus.  You cannot rely on symptoms to know if you are HIV-positive.  Many people who are HIV-positive do not have any symptoms for years.  You can now have a rapid test done in select sites around the state and know your HIV status in less than an hour. 

                                                               “Take the Test, Take Control”

Early detection and huge strides in medical treatment make it possible for HIV-positive individuals to enjoy long, healthy lives. Getting tested helps identify those infected with HIV and gets them into treatment; helping to prevent the further spread of HIV.  If you are looking to find a free, state-funded testing site near you for initial testing or follow-up or have questions about HIV/AIDS, STDs, or hepatitis, contact us (The New Jersey AIDS/HIV/STD Hotline) either by calling 800-624-2377, text/email at 8006242377@njpies.org, or chat via our site at www.njhivstdline.org. Calls are free and confidential. We are always here to help!

Services available, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year:

• Referrals for testing sites and other related services
• HIV/AIDS, STD and Hepatitis Prevention Information
• HIV Counseling and Treatment Locations
• HIV Treatment Information

As of July 1, 2013, New Jersey Medical School will become part of Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey.