World AIDS Day

World AIDS Day

In recognition of those who have been affected by HIV and AIDS, Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) asks everyone to wear a red ribbon on National World AIDS Day, Saturday, December 1, 2012.

There could not be a better time to introduce William Tinley, JCPH’s new HIV Outreach coordinator, who urges everyone in the community get an HIV test.  William is passionate about his work at the HIV clinic and has already started a blog to educate people about the virus. On behalf of JCPH, William asks, “Do you know your status?”  

According to the Centers for Disease Control, an estimated 1.2 million people are living with HIV and 1 out of every 5 is not even aware that their status is positive.  They also estimate 50,000 Americans are newly infected every single year.

Taking a look at the epidemic in the state of Colorado alone, Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment's Surveillance Report through September, 2012, reveals that the total number of people living with HIV disease continued to increase from 10,459 in 2008 to 11,512 through September 2012. The total number of people living with HIV disease in Colorado increases at a rate of about 3 percent per year.

The only way for someone to know if they have HIV is to take the HIV test. Knowing your status can prevent you from inadvertently infecting someone else. There is no cure for HIV, but there are new treatment options allowing people infected with HIV to live healthy, productive lives.

Get HIV counseling and testing one of our conveniently located HIV testing clinics.  With a rapid test, you can even get results during your visit.  Make an appointment today by calling 303-239-7078.