Today is National Testing Day and the Thunder Bay District Health Unit, Elevate NWO, NorWest Community Health Centres and Thunder Bay Drug Strategy partnered to raise awareness about HIV and Hepatitis in the community and offer free testing today at Victoriaville Mall from 11am – 2pm.   

“Fourteen per cent of people living with HIV don’t know their status, and that percentage is even higher for people with undiagnosed Hep C,” said Tonya Muchano, Acting Director of Education & Community Development, Elevate NWO. “That’s why we’re encouraging everyone to get the information they need and get tested. Even if you think you’re not at risk, if you haven’t been tested in a while—or at all—get tested.”

People living with HIV and Hepatitis may not know they carry the virus, which increases the risk that the virus may pass to others through sexual activity and sharing drug-related equipment. Knowing one’s status means appropriate treatment and care can take place sooner and result in healthier outcomes.

HIV isn’t what it used to be. Treatment nowadays is very effective, and people can live long, healthy, active lives. Most people receiving HIV treatment can now live with the virus completely suppressed and not pass it to their sexual partners.

Through the Thunder Bay District Health Unit, a website, HepNet, is now live for people to visit and learn more information on Hepatitis C and the resources available in the community. 

“Working collaboratively, members of HepNet are pleased to announce the launch of hepcnwo.ca,” said Robin Cooper – Health Promotion Planner, Thunder Bay District Health Unit. “The goal of this website is to provide local information as well as links to credible resources for both the public and other social service providers.”

Now in its second year, National Testing Day is recognized by more than 70 communities across Canada and aims to reduce stigma and barriers to getting tested, as well as raise awareness about the risks and treatment options available.

 

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Contact:           Phoenix Schweitz, Director of Harm Reduction – Elevate NWO, 345-1516 ext 248, pschweitz@elevatenwo.org