FREE HIV TESTING

Importance of Getting Tested

HIV testing is important because it helps people stay healthy and reduces the spread of HIV: 

Early detection
HIV can be difficult to detect because it can hide in the body for years. Early detection can reduce the risk of complications and transmission. 

Treatment
HIV treatment can help people living with HIV live long, healthy lives. People who take HIV medicine as prescribed and have an undetectable viral load can't pass HIV on to others through sex. "Undetectable = Untransmittable" (U=U).

Prevention
If you test negative (or non-reactive), you can take steps to prevent HIV, such as using condoms, or taking PrEP. Note: condoms can also reduce the risk for contracting many STIs, and, of course, unplanned pregnancy as well. 
 
Care
If you test positive (or reactive), you can get connected to HIV care and treatment. A referral to treatment typically begins with a blood-based test to verify that you do indeed have HIV, and informs your care provider an idea of existing impact on your body and strain of the virus.

The CDC recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get at least one HIV test. In truth, HIV testing should be a routine part of your health goals.

People at higher risk should get tested more frequently, no less than once per year. Some people who are at higher risk include:

• People who are sexually active, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.

• People who identify as male who have sex with other men.

• People who have had sex with a person living with HIV.

• People who have had more than one partner since their last HIV test.

• People who have shared needles or inject drugs.

• People who have experienced blood-to-blood contact between themselves (through an open wound) and the blood of someone living with HIV.

 
You can get tested by CAARAC, at your local health department, many college health centers, and/or other health service not-for-profit organizations. At-home testing kits can also now be obtained in some localities online and in pharmacies. Note: kits obtained in pharmacies often require purchase.