GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — In recognition of World AIDS Day on Dec. 1, the Kent County Health Department (KCHD) will be offering a free walk-in HIV testing clinic.
The health department said they're offering the clinic in honor of the more than 42 million people who have died of complications from human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
“The only way to know if you have HIV is to get tested, making it a critical step in protecting your health, the health of your partner, and the well-being of our entire community,” said Christopher Bendekgey, KCHD Community Clinical Services Director.
The testing will be done at 700 Fuller Ave NE in Grand Rapids from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 27.
“Early detection not only helps prevent the spread of HIV, but it also opens the door to life-saving treatments that can slow or even stop the progression of the disease,” said Bendekgey.
The health department said that the disease is mainly spread through unprotected sex and sharing needles or syringes. HIV attacks the immune system and weakens an individual's ability to fight disease and infection.
If left untreated, HIV can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), which can result in death.
For more information about how to prevent and treat HIV, AIDS, and other sexually transmitted infections, visit the CDC’s website or you can explore available services through the KCHD here.
