Free HIV testing offered this week
(CNS Local Life): As part of activities in connection with this year’s World AIDS Day, commemorated 1 December, the Health Services Authority’s (HSA) Public Health Department (PHD), the Cayman AIDS Foundation and the Cayman Islands Red Cross have collaborated to organise six days of free HIV/AIDS testing from 27 November-2 December. Free HIV counselling will also be offered.
Special arrangements have been implemented to facilitate speed and confidentiality for HIV-testing activities during the week’s observance, stated an HSA press release. No appointment is necessary during this week, and the waiting time for testing is usually no more than 10 minutes. Anyone seeking testing or counselling needs to indicate to the registration clerks that they would like to register for free HIV screening.
The results will be available in three working days and will be given to the patient only, at the clinic where the test was taken.
There are several ways to avoid or reduce the chances of being exposed:
- Be faithful with a partner who is also faithful
- Abstinence
- Always use protection (condoms) in sexual encounters
- Avoid the use of illicit intravenous drugs.
The PHD also offers free HIV screening year round, each Tuesday at the Cayman Islands Red Cross from 9am to 1pm.
For more information, call (244-2507) or email HIV/AIDS Coordinator Laura Elniski, or call (244-2632) or email Health Promotion Officer Therese Prehay
Category: Medical and Health
