Why do we need to be tested with HIV?

As reported by the Department of Health or DOH 7 last month, the state of HIV Cases in the Philippines most especially Central Visayas is alarming. Based on DOH 7 records, there were 8,104 people living with HIV in the region in 2018, and there is a seven percent increase in the first five months of 2019. If this trend continues, by 2022, there will be an estimated 10,279 people living with HIV in the region. (sunstar.com.ph) How can this be stopped? One thing can block the rise by knowing your HIV status. You can help by joining us on June 15, the National HIV testing day!

DEFINITION OF IMPORTANT TERMS

What is HIV?
According to HIV.gov, HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. It is the virus that can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, or AIDS, if not treated. Unlike some other viruses, the human body can’t get rid of HIV completely, even with treatment. So once you get HIV, you have it for life.

What Is AIDS? 
AIDS is the most severe phase of HIV infection. People with AIDS have such badly damaged immune systems that they get an increasing number of severe illnesses, called opportunistic infections.



WHY DO WE NEED TO BE TESTED WITH HIV?

1.  We can stop the increase in HIV cases. 

If we are tested positive in HIV, that means we can eliminate or lessen the risk of transferring the virus to another person with sexual acts. And this means we will be more careful and be a responsible individual starting on.

2. We don't know what to do if we are tested positive.

Actually, this is what I was thinking when I was drafting this article. I haven't had an HIV testing before but I encourage my inner me to do it this weekend. I heard if tested positive, there's a free drug and treatment from our government. Here in Central Visayas, there are 13 treatment Centers that offer free meds and consultancy. And if in doubt, we can always call DOH or any City Medical Center for inquiries or call Love Yourself White House at 0927 873 7575 for details.

3. If we are tested positive, what will people say?

Personally, I'm in the stage of my life that I really don't fucking care! My apology for the word but seriously, it's our health and not theirs. And the best thing when you get tested this Saturday is that results are between you and the health worker. It will be kept secret and confidential. In addition, all volunteers or health workers are obliged never to disclose this information.

4. I've been a blood donor ever since so I guess I don't need to be tested with HIV.

WRONG! When you donate blood, it is more on donating blood and not for HIV testing purposes. Did you know that health worker needs your consent or permission prior to testing your blood for HIV? That means, during your bloodletting time, your blood was not tested with HIV at all. So, it's not safe to say you are confident. It's best to be tested.

5. I am not active in SEX but when I do, I always use a condom. So I am safe?

Safe yes but sometimes we tend to forget. Adding HIV testing as part of your sexual health routine is recommended.

Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach Official supports the #HotNursesOfPinas National HIV Testing Day! 

WHERE TO GET TESTED FOR HIV THIS JUNE 15? You can register here for free HIV testing or check out the following centers nationwide.

National Capital Region (NCR)
- Blumentritt, Manila at LoveYourself Welcome
- Gil-Puyat-Taft, Pasay City at LoveYourself Uni
- Libertad, Pasay City at Victoria by LoveYourself
- Mandaluyong City at LoveYourself Anglo
- Paranaque City at Lily by LoveYourself x Decent Image of South Signal Association
- SM Aura, Taguig City at Kalayaan Hall (8am to 4pm only)

LUZON
- Bacoor City, Cavite at Hero Community Center by Cavite Positive Action Group
- Cavite City at CPAG Community Center by Cavite Positive Action Group-The JCH Advocacy Inc.
- Imus City, Cavite by AVES Love and Light
- Mabalacat City, Pampanga at LAKAN Community Center by Juan Posi+ive Movement
- Puerto Princesa City, Palawan at Amos Tara by Project H4

VISAYAS
-Cebu City at LoveYourself White House
-Iloilo City at Rajah community center by Family Planning Organization of the Philippines - Iloilo Chapter.

MINDANAO
- Cagayan de Oro City at ORO PIA by Kagay-an Plus-Preserving Life, Uniting Society
- Davao City by Olympus Society of Davao
- Zamboanga City by Mujer-LGBT Organization