National HIV testing day is June 27: Free testing available in Knoxville

KNOXVILLE -- In the United States, one in five people living with HIV don't know they have it. The only way to know if you have HIV is to get tested because many people with HIV don't have any symptoms.

Wednesday, June 27 is National HIV testing day. Knox County public health professionals stress the importance of knowing your status and how easy it is to get tested.

"If you have ever had sex, you should get tested," Said Dr. Martha Buchanan, Knox County Health Department director. "No matter your age, race, sex or sexual orientation, HIV doesn't discriminate. You should know your status."

Even if you don't feel sick, getting early treatment for HIV is important: early treatment can help you live a longer, healthier life. Also, people who are unaware of their status may unknowingly infect others.

HIV testing is covered for many people under the Affordable Care Act, the health care reform law passed in 2010. Depending on your insurance plan, you may be able to get tested at no cost to you. Talk to your insurance provider.

Get FREE, confidential testing at these locations:

• All Knox County Health Department Clinics. Clinics are open Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. No appointment is necessary. Clinic locations are listed on the KCHD website, www.knoxcounty.org
• Wednesday, June 27 at Walgreens, 2400 N. Broadway, from noon to 4:00 p.m., sponsored by Helen Ross McNabb and Walgreens
• Saturday, June 30 at the Healthy Community Health Fair, Walter P. Taylor Homes, 317 McConnell Street, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Published June 23, 2012