Public Health Offers Free Screenings for National HIV Testing Day
Mecklenburg County Public Health will recognize National HIV Testing Day on June 27 with free screenings for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). In partnership with Atrium Health, Novant Health, and other community partners, the screenings will be available at three Charlotte area locations.
“We really want to get the word out about these free screenings. Testing is an important first step in our fight against HIV, and we want residents to take this step on National HIV Testing Day,” said Angela Lee, Mecklenburg County Public Health Assistant Director of Preventive Health.
These events are open only to those seeking a screening. The free screenings are available on June 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the following locations.
HIV continues to be a public health challenge in Mecklenburg County. Twenty percent (20%) of the cases in North Carolina are in the County, which is currently listed as one of the United States’ priority jurisdictions for the National Ending the HIV Epidemic strategy. Approximately one in four new HIV diagnoses in Mecklenburg County occurred among persons ages 13 – 24 years and nearly two in five were among persons between the ages of 25 and 35 years old.
“This virus is disproportionately impacting young people in our community, and we need everyone’s help reaching them. I’m hopeful family and friends will pass along information about these opportunities for free and confidential testing to their loved ones,” said Matt Jenkins, Mecklenburg County Public Health HIV/STD director.
This year’s theme is “Take the Test & Take the Next Step”, and ONE Charlotte Health Alliance partners are teaming up to encourage community members to get screened at these non-traditional locations in the community, as well as to receive educational materials, case management, and other services if needed. This effort supports the County’s Getting to Zero Mecklenburg initiative, a community plan to reduce new cases of HIV in Mecklenburg County, which we hope will ultimately lead to ending the HIV epidemic.
Outside of June 27, screenings for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections are offered around Mecklenburg County at a variety of locations and hours with no appointment needed. For more information, call Mecklenburg County Public Health at 704-432-TEST (8378) or email [email protected].
About Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE)
The EHE initiative includes four science-based strategies that will help end the epidemic: Diagnose, Treat, Prevent, and Respond. This work includes expanding access to HIV/STI testing in nontraditional settings, increasing PrEP access for un/underinsured persons, and rapidly linking people to essential HIV care and treatment services.
NOTE: Due to HIPAA privacy laws and sensitivities surrounding this event, the information provided above is for dissemination only. This is not a media invitation to attend the event. Thank you for your help in getting the word out and your understanding of privacy policies.