On World AIDS Day, the Westchester County Department of Health is encouraging residents to get tested to learn their HIV status, and seek preventive treatment when indicated to improve their health outcomes.
Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler said: “With appropriate care and advances in medical treatment, those with HIV are able to live longer and healthier lives. Knowing your HIV status can also help prevent transmission to others. Free testing for HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases — as well as preventive treatment — is always available through the Westchester County Health Department.”
The Westchester County Health Department offers free rapid and standard HIV testing, as well as PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) at its clinics at 134 Court Street in White Plains, and at 20 South Broadway in Yonkers. Residents can call (914) 995-5800 for available dates and times, or view the clinic schedule.
PrEP is a preventive treatment that when taken daily, can prevent HIV in people who are most at risk. PEP, or post-exposure prophylaxis, is medicine taken to prevent HIV after a possible exposure. A new form of PrEP, the drug lenacapavir, is another option approved by the Food and Drug Administration, which requires only twice a year injections.
For more information about HIV and testing, visit the Health Department Website.
