Health Promotion and Wellness administered free and confidential HIV and hepatitis C tests to students in the Student Recreation and Activities Center Jan. 23.
The event was meant to encourage students to remain in control of their health by staying aware of the dangers of HIV, hepatitis C and other sexually transmitted infections, as well as how to properly prevent them.
The department will be holding an HIV and hepatitis C testing event every month this semester, providing several opportunities for students to get tested and learn more about STIs.
“Testing and screening [are] essential for the early detection of diseases,” said Jack Baker, a Health Promotion and Wellness intern. “When a person knows their status, we are able to seek treatment, educate them on reducing and eliminating risky behaviors, as well as reinforce behaviors that reduce rates of transmission.”
Fast and easy testing for both HIV and hepatitis C consisted of one finger prick with results made available in 20 minutes.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately one in eight of those living with HIV do not know that they have the virus. One million people died from HIV-related causes worldwide in 2016, according to the World Health Organization.
“HIV can affect anyone, so we strongly encourage everyone to be tested,” Baker said.
The CDC also reported that hepatitis C kills more Americans than any other infectious disease, and 19,659 people died from the virus in 2014. Awareness plays a crucial role in the prevention of these deadly diseases.
“Hepatitis C is a serious blood-borne virus that attacks the liver. It is commonly contracted through sharing needles, transfusions or coming into any contact with blood or secretions that are infected with the virus,” Baker said. “Many people who are infected do not have signs or symptoms, which makes it important to be tested.”
Health Promotion and Wellness also provided students with free condoms and other contraceptives at the event, thereby raising awareness of the importance of protection.
“To prevent HIV and STIs, you should know your status, as well as the status of your partners,” Baker said. “Proper condom use is effective in reducing transmission. Limiting the number of sexual partners and limiting or eliminating risky forms of unprotected sex is also effective.”
Health Promotion and Wellness is hosting testing again on Feb. 13 and March 28 in suite 1220 in the Student Recreation and Activities Center on the Kennesaw campus. Testing will also be available on the Marietta campus in Student Center Ballroom B on April 10.
Students can find more information and resources in the Health Promotion and Wellness office in suite 1200 of the SRAC. Testing is also administered at the Cobb and Douglas Community Services Board.
