Testing makes us Stronger.
Your HIV test result expires every time you have risky sex. Stay strong and informed.
Many people don’t realize they have HIV because they feel fine. However, HIV attacks the cells which normally defend the body against illness, eventually leading to a weakened immune system. If someone is infected with HIV and doesn’t get medical treatment, HIV can destroy so many CD4 cells that the body can't fight infections and diseases anymore. That is why it is important...
Testing makes us Stronger.
Your HIV test result expires every time you have risky sex. Stay strong and informed.
Many people don’t realize they have HIV because they feel fine. However, HIV attacks the cells which normally defend the body against illness, eventually leading to a weakened immune system. If someone is infected with HIV and doesn’t get medical treatment, HIV can destroy so many CD4 cells that the body can't fight infections and diseases anymore. That is why it is important to get tested and to seek medical treatment as soon as possible if HIV is detected. There is no cure, but with proper medical care, the virus can be controlled.
Knowing your HIV status will make you stronger because you will have the information you need to make good decisions about your sexual health and your future. Studies have shown that when people find out they have HIV, they are more likely to take steps to protect their health and that of their partners. Also, if you find out that you are infected with HIV, you can seek medical care quickly. People often live long, fulfilling, and healthy lives after receiving an HIV diagnosis. It’s important to take charge of your health if you are diagnosed with HIV.
If you have unprotected sex or take other risks with someone who is HIV positive, it is important to understand that your infection will not show up immediately in an HIV test. Most HIV tests are antibody tests that measure the antibodies (special proteins the body makes to fight HIV) produced by the body once infected by HIV. It can take some time for these antibodies to show up in a test, generally around 90 days, and this time period can vary from person to person. This time period is commonly referred to as the “window period.” For example, if you got an HIV test within the first three months after possible exposure, you should get another test after those three months have passed in case the first test occurred during your window period.
National HIV Testing Day (NHTD) was first observed on June 27, 2005. This day was established as an annual observance to promote HIV testing. This is a particularly important time for YOU to get involved! Take the Test, Take Control. Join us at the MISTER Center to find your strength. (Thursday, June 27, 2013 from 10am-7pm).
The MISTER Center is located at 60 Eleventh Street. Click here for directions. If you are taking MARTA we are located one block north of the Midtown MARTA Station via Peachtree Walk.
For more questions regarding services or general information please call (678) 365-4300.
