Health Department Offers Free HIV Tests

The is encouraging residents to take advantage of free testing in recognition of National HIV Testing Day on Wednesday at local health centers.

Free HIV testing and counseling services are available at the county's four testing sites, including:

• Annapolis Health Services Building
• Parole Health Center
• Anne Arundel Community College

Appointments can be made by calling 410-222-7108 but are not necessary.

According to a press release from the health department, Maryland ranked fourth in the nation for estimated AIDS diagnosis rates. The national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that more than one million people in the United States are living with HIV and one in five do not know they are infected.

"Medical treatments are available to help people living with HIV; but to receive treatment, individuals must first know if they have the virus," according to the press release.

People who should get tested include:

• Anyone who has ever shared needles, syringes or drug paraphernalia.
• Anyone who has had a sexually transmitted infection or sex with someone who had an STI.
• Anyone who has had unprotected sex with a person who had unprotected sex with others.
• All pregnant women should have HIV testing as part of their medical care.

For more information about year-round free HIV testing and HIV/AIDS services at county health centers, visit the department’s website or call 410-222-7108.