November 29, 2016
For More Information Contact:
- Kathryn Whitestone, 434-270-4802
- Health Educator, Public Information Officer
(Charlottesville, Va.) — In recognition of World AIDS Day on December 1, the Thomas Jefferson Health District’s (TJHD) #TJstatus Testing Program will host free events all week for people to get tested for HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. In the United States, about 1 in 8 people who has HIV does not know it.
#TJstatus events will include free, confidential rapid HIV testing, sexual health education, and safer sex items, including condoms, dental dams, and lubricants. HIV testing will include a finger stick blood sample with results ready in twenty minutes. Testing is available on a walk-in basis to anyone who attends the following events in Charlottesville.
- Charlottesville Downtown Mall Area
Tuesday, November 29, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. - Escafé, Karaoke Night – 215 West Water Street
Wednesday, November 30, from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. - University of Virginia LGBTQ Center, Newcomb Hall Lower Level – 180 McCormick Road
Thursday, December 1, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. - The Little White Party Event, Kitchen Catering and Events – 606 Rivanna Ave
Friday, December 2, 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.
“The only way to know for sure whether or not you have HIV is to get tested,” said Kasey Landrum, #TJstatus Testing Program Coordinator. “We hope that these events will increase access and raise awareness of the quick and easy free HIV testing that is available in our community.”
TJHD offers free rapid HIV testing year round in many different locations, including where people are most comfortable, like their homes, offices, cars, or workplaces. To schedule a HIV test, learn about local resources, or to receive free safer sex items, call the #TJstatus test line at 434-767-TEST.
Around the world, about 37 million people are living with HIV. In the United States, about 44,000 people get infected with HIV every year. World AIDS Day is a global initiative to raise awareness, fight prejudice, and improve education about HIV and AIDS.
For more information about World AIDS Day, visit www.WorldAIDSDay.org or call 434-767-TEST.