As part of this year’s local World AIDS Day activities, the Health Services Authority’s Public Health Department, the Cayman AIDS Foundation and the Cayman Islands Red Cross have collaborated to organize six days of free HIV/AIDS testing dating from November 27 – 2 December, as part of its World AIDS Day Observance. Free HIV testing and counselling will also be offered.
Special arrangements have been implemented to facilitate speed and confidentiality for HIV testing activities during the week’s observance. No appointment is necessary during this week, and the waiting time for testing is usually no more than ten minutes. Persons seeking testing or counselling need to indicate to the registration clerks that they would like to register for free HIV screening.
The results will be available in three working days and will be given to the patient only, who must return to clinic where the test was taken to retrieve the results.
There are several ways to avoid or reduce the chances of being exposed:
• Being faithful with a partner who is also faithful; or
• Abstinence; or
• Always using protection (condoms) in sexual encounters.
• Avoid the use of illicit intravenous drugs.
The Public Health Department will also like to use this opportunity to remind the Public that Free HIV screening is offered year round, each Tuesday at the Cayman Islands Red Cross from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.
For more information about HIV Testing Week, contact HIV/AIDS Coordinator Laura Elniski at 244-2507 or laura.elniski@hsa.ky or Health Promotion Officer Therese Prehay at 244-2632 or therese.prehay@hsa.ky.
