The Owensboro Area HIV/AIDS Task Force
Together we can make a difference!
The Owensboro Area HIV/AIDS Task ForceTogether we can make a difference!
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE National HIV Testing Day Observed June 27thCommunities Nationwide Hold Events to Raise AwarenessJune 27, 2007 -- marks the 12th annual observance of National HIV Testing Day. This national mobilization effort is designed to encourage people across the United States and Territorial Areas to get tested and take control of their destinies. Special events such as free HIV/AIDS testing, prayer breakfasts, town hall meetings and memorial services will be held throughout the country. More than 25 years after this pandemic started we still are battling to contain its spread. While the sixteen largest cities in the US hold nearly half the HIV/AIDS cases, rates are on the rise in the South in cities and towns just like Owensboro. More than any one behavior, it is ignorance of the facts how you get HIV and of individual status that is causing the spread of the disease. It is that ignorance that scientists project will result in half the world’s population being HIV-positive by 2025. “I don’t know which amazes me more: that in 2007 I still get calls from people asking me if it is OK for an HIV-positive friend or family member use their swimming pool or that people still believe that they have some kind of moral vaccination against this disease,” said Christophre Woods, Program Director & Community Liaison for the Owensboro Area HIV/AIDS Taskforce. “No matter whom you are, what kind of relationship you are in, or how long it has been since you were sexually active, HIV testing should be a regular part of your health screenings. Many people may remember when they used to whisper of others that they had “the cancer”. It was during a time when we didn’t recognize that everyone should have that screening. It’s no different now, cancer screenings are routine. Quality of care and rates of survival have increased as a result. HIV should be no different.” No one is immune to HIV’s charms. Seniors nationally make up the second fastest growing group of new infections with rates between 12 and 14%. In Kentucky, however, the 2006 HIV/AIDS Semi-Annual Report tells us the rate rose from 14 to 22% in a single year—that’s nearly 10 percent higher than the national average. No one wants to see this disease for what it is…an equal opportunity stalker. But there are simple ways to protect yourself. Part of that is to get tested. The Owensboro Area HIV/AIDS Taskforce, in collaboration with several community organizations, will be offering free HIV testing for National HIV Testing Day at several locations, including La Plaza (Misas, Inc.) and the HL Neblett Center. The rapid “needle-free” test is anonymous and consists of an oral swab. Results are available in as little as 20 minutes. These services can also be accessed in the Taskforce office M-F 8:30AM-3:00PM. Other times and locations are available by appointment by calling 270-683-6018. For more information on National HIV Testing Day or other services, please visit the website at www.owensboro-aids.org. For More Information Contact: |
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