Tuesday is National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD). It was first observed in 1999 to acknowledge how HIV disproportionately affects Black people.
The Florida Department of Health in Citrus County is offering free, rapid HIV testing. Spokesperson Amy Douglas says the goal is to stop the spread of the disease.
Those who test HIV-positive will be helped with case management services, if needed, and get connected to treatment options, such as medication. Those who are uninsured or cannot afford medication will be can apply for assistance, Douglas said.
Public health experts cite racism, discrimination, and mistrust in the health care system as reasons some Black people do not seek or receive HIV prevention services. NBHAAD is an opportunity to increase HIV education, testing, community involvement, and treatment among Black communities.
The Department of Health in Citrus County no-cost, walk-in, rapid HIV testing is Tuesday, February 7, 2023, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the health department office in Lecanto. More information on HIV testing at your county health department is here.