February 7 is National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
Baltimore County offers free HIV testing at multiple locations
The Baltimore County Department of Health is hosting five, free HIV testing clinics in observance of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD).The clinics will be held on Thursday, February 7 and are open to everyone, regardless of race.
February 7, 2019 is the 19th annual observance of NBHAAD. This initiative aims to raise awareness of HIV – especially among African Americans. A primary focus of this annual observation is to encourage everyone to get tested and learn their status. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, of the more than 1.1 million people in the United States estimated to have HIV, approximately 15% are unaware that they are infected. Moreover, although African Americans represent approximately 13% of the U.S. population, they account for approximately 43% of the HIV diagnoses.
“Even though these clinics are being held in observance of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, it’s critical for everyone ages 13 and older to get tested and to know their status,” said Dr. Gregory Wm. Branch, Director of the Department of Health and Human Services. “What you don’t know can hurt you—and others. So take advantage of our free testing opportunities.”
Testing is free, quick and conveniently provided at a Baltimore County Health Center near you. No appointment is necessary and your test results are provided within 20 minutes. Testing locations and times are as follows: HIV Clinic Schedule
- Drumcastle Government Center | 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM 6401 York Road, Third Floor, 21212
- Eastern Family Resource Center | 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM 9150 Franklin Square Drive, 21237
- Lansdowne Health Center | 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM 3902 Annapolis Road, 21227
- Liberty Family Resource Center | 1 PM to 4 PM 3525 Resource Drive, 21133
- Essex Health Center | 2 PM to 7 PM 201 Back River Neck Road, 21221
For information about our year-round HIV testing clinics, please call 410-887-2437 or visit our website at www.baltimorecountymd.gov/go/gettested.