FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 29, 2018
LAS VEGAS – In observance of the 30th World AIDS Day, the Southern Nevada Health District will offer free Express Testing for HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia at its Sexual Health Clinic on Friday, Nov. 30 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. on a first come, first served basis; appointments are not necessary. Express Testing is available for people who are not showing symptoms of an STD and provides same-day HIV results. STD results are available in seven to 10 days. For additional information, contact the Sexual Health Clinic at (702) 759-0702 or visit the clinic webpage.
World AIDS Day is an annual observance to highlight efforts to combat HIV/AIDS and support the more than 1 million people in the United States and 36 million people worldwide who are living with HIV/AIDS.
The Southern Nevada Health District encourages everyone to get tested and to “Know Your Status.” Early diagnosis is critical for people with HIV so that they can benefit from antiretroviral therapy (ART). ART reduces HIV levels in the bloodstream, reduces HIV-related illnesses, and lowers the risk of transmitting HIV to intimate partners. With ART, HIV-positive people can remain healthy for many years.
People who get tested and learn they are HIV negative can make decisions about their risk factors and health care. Those who are at high risk for HIV infection can discuss pre-exposure prophylaxis, called PrEP, with their health care providers to reduce their risk of infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has information about PrEP on its website.
In the United States, 39,782 people were diagnosed with HIV in 2016. Although the number of new HIV infections has declined, they still impact certain groups more than others. Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men continue to experience the most infections. For additional information, visit the Department of Health and Human Services’ www.hiv.gov U.S. Statistics page.
The Health District’s Sexual Health Clinic is open 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. The clinic also offers STD services including testing, treatment, exams, referrals, and counseling. Most insurance is accepted, or cost is calculated on a sliding scale based on income and the number of people in the household. Additional fees may apply depending upon lab testing services to diagnose and treat certain sexually transmitted infections. For more information about services offered and fees, call (702) 759-0702 or visit www.SNHD.info.
Anyone who wishes to be tested and is not experiencing symptoms can visit The Center each Monday through Thursday for free HIV and syphilis testing. The Center is located at 401 S. Maryland Parkway. For additional information about testing, call (702) 733-9800 or visit www.TheCenterLV.org. The Health District’s website also includes a listing of free HIV/STD Screening Clinics.
The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.