Statistics show that about 20 percent of people living with HIV or AIDS don't even know it. That was the focus of a National Day of Testing Awareness around the country and here in Columbus. The awareness day was really about the stigma some still attach to AIDS and HIV. Organizers hoped they had broken down some barriers by holding the free HIV/AIDS testing event.
About 100 people stopped by the Columbus Public Library for the free testing, including 22 year old Shenita Carter.
"Actually I was coming up here to do some research and so I went ahead and got my screening, and it came out negative so I’m happy," said Carter.
Carter said she tries to take advantage of every free screening she hears about around Columbus.
"Don’t be nervous. It’s better to find out now than to find out later. It’s better off for the treatment and stuff," added Carter. Health care workers agreed.
They said the key to preventing the spread of the infection is awareness. Antonio Lawrence is the Health Services Program Supervisor at the Columbus Health Department.Â
"At this age in time, HIV and AIDS is just everywhere, of course it's here in Columbus. We’re dealing with HIV and AIDS like the rest of America, like the rest of the world," said Lawrence.
Lawerence is pleased that "taboos" surrounding the disease are starting to disappear.
"I recall a time that we would go out and do testing in the community and no one would show up. and now when we go out and advertise that we're doing testing or we show up at events and are doing testing, people test," said Lawrence.
There is one group of people who are encouraged to take advantage of daily free testing. Health care workers say seniors still attach a stigma to the infection and are less likely to undergo testing.
Two different tests were offered at the event. One only takes about 15 minutes for results. It involved a quick finger prick. For those who don't like needles, there is also a cheek swab option. For that option, the results have to be sent back and it takes about 3-5 business days to hear.
The Chattahoochee Valley Better Way Foundation along with New Horizons provided the testing. The Health Department also offers free testing throughout the year.
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