DHEC Offers Free HIV/STDs Testing Feb. 6th
In recognition of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on Feb. 6, 2024, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) is offering free testing for HIV and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) at participating public health departments on Tuesday, Feb. 6th. DHEC encourages South Carolinians to take advantage of this free testing opportunity so you know your health status when it comes to STDs. Can’t make it to a testing event? No problem. Order a free test kit!
HIV, STD & Hepatitis Testing Location
"Excluding those persons with an unknown or other race, African Americans, representing 26 percent of the state's total population, account for 67 percent of the total number of people living with diagnosed HIV in South Carolina, a grave disproportionate burden,” said Ali Mansaray, director for the division of STD, HIV, and Viral Hepatitis. “Among persons newly diagnosed with HIV (excluding those with an unknown or other race), 59% are African Americans. It is important to promote testing and prevention messages to reach those who have not yet been tested and don't know their HIV status.”
DHEC continues to promote the goal of “Ending the Epidemics” in South Carolina. This initiative focuses on reducing the number of new HIV, STD, and hepatitis C infections; linking individuals with these health conditions to care; increasing viral suppression for those living with HIV/AIDS; and reemphasizing prevention.
As the fight to end HIV continues, it is important that everyone - individuals, families, agencies, and communities – work together to make the greatest impact to reduce stigma, promote testing, and take other actions that support the effort.
In conjunction with National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, DHEC encourages all South Carolinians to get tested to learn their status. Local health departments will be offering free HIV and STD testing on Tuesday, February 6. You can find testing locations near you using DHEC's online service locator at https://scdhec.gov/HIVLocator.
By recognizing National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day and highlighting the goal of “Ending the Epidemics” in our state, DHEC displays the core value of Promoting Teamwork and the agency strategy of Education and Engagement.
Throughout the year, DHEC clinics provide HIV testing at a small cost depending on the client's ability to pay.
For more information about HIV testing, as well as local HIV testing sites, call DHEC's HIV/STD Hotline at 1-800-322-AIDS (1-800-322-2437), or visit DHEC's service locator at https://scdhec.gov/HIVLocator.