National Gay Men’s HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NGMHAAD) is September 27. It was first in 2008 by the National Association of People with AIDS. On this day, we focus on the impact of HIV and AIDS on gay and bisexual men. We also focus on ongoing efforts to reduce HIV and AIDS in this community.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), gay and bisexual men are the population most affected by HIV in the United States. This is also true in Virginia. In Virginia in 2022, 53% of people with HIV were men who had sex with men.
There are signs of progress. New HIV infections are falling among some age and racial/ethnic groups in gay and bisexual men. However, disparities continue to exist among Black/African-American and Hispanic/Latino gay and bisexual men. For more on these disparities, see HIV and Gay and Bisexual Men: HIV Diagnoses.
Take the time this NGMHAAD to:
- Learn about HIV prevention methods
- Find HIV, STD, and viral hepatitis testing near you
- Learn more about HIV and how to combat HIV stigma
- Find out about HIV treatment options if you’re living with HIV
If you or a loved one has questions about HIV services, call the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) Disease Prevention Hotline. Reach a hotline counselor toll free at (800) 533-4148. Hotline hours are 8:00am until 5pm, Monday through Friday.
Other Health Updates for Gay/Bisexual Men
While Virginia has not seen a resurgence in mpox that other parts of the county have, it is still important to learn about mpox and be prepared. Gay and bisexual men have been most affected by the mpox outbreak. Get vaccinated. Two doses will provide the greatest protection. To learn more about mpox, visit the VDH mpox page.
The VDH has announced a statewide outbreak of meningococcal disease. An increase in meningococcal disease has occurred in several health regions. This increase is three times the number of expected cases in one year. Vaccination is recommended for individuals who may be at increased risk for the disease. This includes persons with HIV. Learn more about meningococcal disease, the current outbreak, and recommendations on the VDH outbreak page.