Today from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., fast, HIV tests will be administered, no appointment needed, with results delivered on-site. HIV Counselors will also be on hand with information on prevention, early treatment and PrEP, a medication that offers an effective means of protection for those testing negative for HIV.
Mayor Lori Lightfoot will participate in National HIV Testing Day by being tested herself at a South Side Walgreens.
The National Testing Day Initiative is aimed at raising public awareness about the latest in HIV prevention, treatment and care as well as promoting HIV testing as a part of routine health care.
According to the CDC, an estimated 1.1 million people nationwide are living with HIV, including nearly 24,000 individuals in Chicago, 15% of whom have not been diagnosed. In 2017 nearly 24,000 individuals in Chicago were living with HIV with the majority being members of minority groups. Despite progress, the CDC estimates that 1 in 7 are unaware of their HIV status, underscoring the importance of easy access to testing.
For a full list of locations, visit greaterthan.org/walgreens.
