Community Corner

June 27 is National HIV Testing Day

According to the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services, one in every five people living with HIV in the United States are unaware they are infected.

Editor’s Note: The following is a news release from the NJ Department of Health and Senior Services’ AIDS/HIV/STD and Hepatitis Hotline.

Too many Americans are unaware of their HIV status.  In fact, according to the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services, 1 in 5 people living with HIV in the United States are unaware they are infected. Many with HIV do not show symptoms.

Each year on June 27, the New Jersey AIDS/HIV/STD Hotline joins with other prevention organizations across the country to observe National HIV Testing Day (NHTD).  

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The current recommendation is that all individuals between the ages of 13 and 64 be routinely tested for HIV infection; testing should be part of your annual physical exam. 

Testing is the ONLY way to know if you have the HIV virus.  You cannot rely on symptoms to know if you are HIV-positive.  Many people who are HIV-positive do not have any symptoms for years.  You can now have a rapid test done in select sites around the state and know your HIV status in less than an hour. 

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“Take The Test, Take Control”

Early detection and huge strides in medical treatment have made it possible for HIV-positive individuals to enjoy long, healthy lives. Getting tested helps identify those infected with HIV and get them into treatment; helping to prevent the further spread of HIV. 

Call the New Jersey AIDS/HIV/STD Hotline at 1-800-624-2377 to find a FREE state-funded testing site near you.  The hotline also accepts email questions at 8006242377@njpies.org.  Call or text today to find out a location for rapid testing. Remember: Help is Just a Phone Call Away!

If you need more information regarding testing, HIV transmission or have general questions concerning HIV/AIDS, STDs, or Hepatitis, call the health care professionals at the New Jersey AIDS/HIV/STD hotline, 800-624-2377.

The following services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year:

  • Referrals for testing sites and other related services
  • HIV/AIDS, STD and Hepatitis Prevention Information
  • Counseling and Treatment Locations
  • Treatment Information 


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