Free HIV Testing and Counseling Available June 27 at The Mall West End

The following are excerpts from a press release submitted by the

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that over one in five HIV infected persons are unaware of their status.  On June 27, in recognition of National HIV Testing Day (NHTD), the Fulton County Department of Health and Wellness will be offering free testing and counseling at from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

“Our participation in this national campaign continues to solidify our commitment to provide medical assistance and health education to stop the spread of HIV,” says Patrice A. Harris, MD, Director, Fulton County Health Services.  “We hope that many will take advantage of this day to get tested and to learn more about the prevention of HIV.” 

In Georgia, Fulton County was eligible for the CDC grant because the number of HIV infected persons in the County represented greater than 30% of all of the HIV infections in the 28-county Atlanta Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). The County has partnered with DeKalb County to provide similar services there in order to have the greatest impact on reducing new HIV infections.

The CDC estimates that more than 1 million Americans are living with HIV.   Unfortunately, one in five of those people are unaware of their infection.  HIV testing enables people with HIV to take steps to protect their own health and that of their partners.  HIV counseling helps people who test negative get the education they need to stay uninfected.

For more information on National HIV Testing Day activities, call (404) 613-1458 or log-on to www.fultoncountygahealth.org.