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On June 27, the Ottawa County Department of Public Health (OCDPH) is offering free and confidential walk-in rapid HIV testing at the Holland location between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. A few drops of blood taken from a finger provide accurate detection of an HIV infection. This FDA approved test is simple, and test results take only 20 minutes. People who get tested will receive free packs of condoms and educational materials about sexually transmitted disease (STD) prevention and treatment.
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“Rapid HIV testing is an easy step people can take to know their HIV status. Early detection of HIV helps people get linked to care and treatment; leading to healthier outcomes and reducing the risk of HIV transmission to other people,” said Connie Kross, BSN, RN Family Planning & STD Team Supervisor with the Ottawa County Department of Public Health. |
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once. Women who are pregnant should be tested to protect their health and prevent the spread of HIV to their baby. Annual testing is recommended for people who have multiple sex partners, have an STD, inject drugs and men who have sex with men.
Other STD services, pelvic and breast exams, birth control and pregnancy testing are available during normal business hours. All services are confidential, and no parental consent is required. Services are offered on a sliding fee scale (based on income) and will not be denied due to inability to pay or a lack of health insurance. For more information and to schedule an appointment, please call one of the OCDPH offices.
Holland - 12251 James Street, Building C (616) 396-5266
Grand Haven - 1207 South Beechtree Street, Suite B (616) 846-8360
Hudsonville - 3100 Port Sheldon Road (616) 669-0040
www.miOttawa.org/SexualHealth
Media Contacts:
Leanna Kermeen, Community Health Nurse
616-494-5568 or lkermeen@miottawa.org
Kristina Wieghmink, Communications Specialist
616-494-5597 or kwieghmink@miottawa.org
Sources:
https://www.hiv.gov/events/awareness-days/hiv-testing-day
https://www.cdc.gov/features/hivtesting/index.html
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