Sunday is National HIV Testing Day. Do you know your status?

This month marks the 40th anniversary of the discovery of HIV/AIDS.

By Barrett White

 

June 2021 marks 40 years since the discovery of HIV/AIDS. On National HIV Testing Day, health care providers throughout the nation highlight the importance of HIV prevention and the end of HIV stigma. On average, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates there are nearly 40,000 new HIV transmissions every year, with the highest rates found in the South—and of major cities in the South, Houston nears the top of the list for new infections.

“Legacy has been dedicated to ending the HIV pandemic for 40 years now,” says Jen Hadayia, Senior Director of Public Health for Legacy. “There may be a true end in sight with the combination of PrEP and HIV treatment. It all starts with knowing your HIV status.”

This National HIV Testing Day, Legacy reminds you that we offer FREE one minute HIV testing, no appointment needed. Just walk into to one of Legacy’s convenient locations in Montrose, Fifth Ward, Southwest Houston, and more. Get a test anytime in the month of June, and you can enter for a chance to win $100 gift cards.

Legacy also offers free at-home HIV testing kits. The at-home kits offer fast results, and come with the same patient navigation that you would receive if you had your test done in person, regardless of the result of the test. You can find more information on the at-home testing kits and how they work here.

“On this NHTD, I can’t think of a better way to honor those we have lost over the past 40 years and those who have been working hard to end the HIV pandemic than to get tested and know your HIV status,” Hadayia says.

Everyone has an HIV status. Do you know yours? Do your part and get tested with Legacy today. It’s free.