This Saturday, June 27th is National HIV Testing Day to encourage people to get tested for HIV, know their status, and get linked to care and treatment. The Cabell-Huntington Health Department encourages anyone at risk for HIV to get tested and if you have a new partner a new HIV test is recommended.
HIV infection is a bloodborne pathogen which can be spread among people who inject drugs by sharing injection equipment. It is also spread through sexual contact. Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at increased risk. Mother to child transmission can occur during pregnancy, at childbirth, or through breastfeeding. Early detection of infection and treatment with antiretroviral therapy decreases complications of the infection and prevents further infection spread.
As of June 11, 2020, the total number of HIV cases in Cabell County is 90. Daily work to reduce and prevent HIV in Cabell County continues. Routine Confidential HIV testing and counseling is available at the health department and is highly recommended for those at risk. Tests can be done with an oral cotton swab with results in about 20 minutes, or by blood sample with results in approximately 2 weeks. Client counseling and referrals are available. All tests and results are confidential. Anonymous testing can be provided as well. At this time all clinic services are by appointment only, please call (304) 523-6483. For more information please visit cabellhealth.org.
