Health Department Observes National HIV Testing Day
By: KARK 4 News
Updated: June 27, 2012
The Arkansas Department of Health hopes to convince all Arkansans to know their status when it comes to HIV.
Dozens gathered at the Health Department on Wednesday morning to mark National HIV Testing Day.
Recent data showed Arkansas and other Southern states have some of the highest number of new HIV cases in the nation.
Experts say early detection and consistent treatment is the key to effectively treating HIV.
Jimmy Walker said being diagnosed early helped him get the treatment he needed to live a happy, normal life.
"HIV is a chronic illness," Walker said. "It's not a death sentence. You have to get tested, you have to know your status so you can access the resources available to you."
To find testing sites near you, click HERE.
Dozens gathered at the Health Department on Wednesday morning to mark National HIV Testing Day.
Recent data showed Arkansas and other Southern states have some of the highest number of new HIV cases in the nation.
Experts say early detection and consistent treatment is the key to effectively treating HIV.
Jimmy Walker said being diagnosed early helped him get the treatment he needed to live a happy, normal life.
"HIV is a chronic illness," Walker said. "It's not a death sentence. You have to get tested, you have to know your status so you can access the resources available to you."
To find testing sites near you, click HERE.
