National Latino AIDS Awareness Day

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
October 10, 2007

In Southern Nevada, Hispanics account for 16 percent of the 4,734 people with AIDS, 2,168 of whom have died from the illness. Currently, there are 3,363 residents who are living with HIV; of these, 16 percent are Hispanic.

In September 2006, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended that voluntary HIV testing become routine for patients aged 13 to 64 to increase early diagnosis for the more than 250,000 Americans who are unaware they are HIV positive. The CDC noted that studies show that people who are unaware they are HIV positive account for between 50 percent and 70 percent of new sexually transmitted HIV infections.

The health district regularly offers confidential testing services at its main public health center; a separate entrance on the building’s south side ensures clients’ privacy. In addition to testing, the Southern Nevada Health District’s HIV/AIDS program includes counseling, case management, outreach efforts and community referrals. For information, visit the health district’s website, www.SouthernNevadaHealthDistrict.org or call (702) 759-0702.

In addition to the traditional blood test, the health district offers the OraSure HIV-1 oral fluid test that does not use needles as well as the OraQuick Advanced Rapid HIV Antibody Test. Same day results are available with the OraQuick test, which is administered Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., and Thursday morning from 8 a.m. until noon. There is a $25 fee for the same-day test.

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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.