Affordable Health Care Auburn | Chapa-De Indian Health
National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day March 20, 2017
Have You Been Tested for HIV?
Early detection of HIV is one of the best ways to prevent the virus from spreading. You can make a difference! Help Chapa-De honor National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day by scheduling your screening test today.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that all people ages 13 to 64 get an HIV screening, at least once, as part of routine care. People with certain risk factors should schedule a test annually. Because we care about your health and the health of the community, Chapa-De follows those recommendations. During your medical visit your provider may suggest an HIV test.
This health screening is important for reducing the transmission of HIV. According to the CDC, 30% of new HIV infections are transmitted by people who are living with undiagnosed HIV. Being tested for HIV does not mean that you are “at risk”. It just means that you want to do your part to help stop the spread of HIV.
The following are answers to questions that people often have about HIV and HIV testing:
Facts about HIV
What is HIV?
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) causes a disease that weakens the immune system. This makes it hard for the body to fight infections.
How is HIV transmitted?
HIV is spread by the exchange of certain bodily fluids. This occurs primarily by having unprotected sex or sharing needles with an HIV-infected person.
What is an HIV test?
An HIV test determines if your body is producing antibodies to HIV. If you have HIV antibodies this means that you have been infected with HIV.
What if I test HIV positive?
If you are HIV positive, you will want to discuss treatment options with your medical care provider. Many HIV treatment options exist for people who are HIV positive.
What if I test HIV negative?
Protect yourself by following the recommendations below. If you have unprotected sex or share needles for any reason, you should have an HIV test every year.
You can protect yourself and others from HIV
In the United States, HIV is most commonly spread through unprotected sex, or by sharing injection drug equipment (needles), with someone who is HIV positive. For your safety:
- Always use a latex/polyurethane condom (male or female) when you have sex.
- Don’t share needles for injecting drugs, steroids, vitamins, tattooing, or piercing.
You CAN’T get HIV from casual contact, such as handshakes, hugs, toilet seats, dishes, or door knobs.
Signs and Symptoms of HIV
Many people who are HIV-positive do not have noticeable symptoms. However, some people experience a flu-like illness, develop a rash, or get swollen glands for a brief period soon after they become infected with HIV.
If you have any health concerns or questions, contact us today – call the Auburn Health Center at (530) 887-2800 or Grass Valley Health Center at (530) 477-8545.
Chapa-De provides affordable health care and a variety of medical services. We are here to answer any questions you may have and review any concerning symptoms.
Chapa-De is here for you
At Chapa-De, our goal is to keep our communities their healthiest! We encourage all of our patients to learn more about HIV/AIDS, as well as other diseases. It is important that we all understand HIV risk factors, and that we work together to decrease the stigma associated with HIV and HIV testing.
Schedule your well-check appointment today so you can ask us any questions you have about your health, about HIV, or about other illnesses or diseases you would like to learn more about. Your well-check is always 100% confidential and judgement free.
Other resources for help:
Call the California HIV/AIDS Hotline at (800) 367-2437 (AIDS) for HIV referral and consultation resources in your area. Also, visit the Office of AIDS website at: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/programs/AIDS/Pages/OAHIVTestHCS.aspx
PASSIONATE PEOPLE. COMPASSIONATE CARE.
Chapa-De provides medical care, dental care, optometry, behavioral health, pharmacy services and much more.
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