Together we can stop HIV
Each year, on June 27, we observe National HIV Testing Day. On this day, Wabanaki Health and Wellness unites with partners, tribal communities, health departments, and other organizations to raise awareness about the importance of HIV testing and early diagnosis of HIV.
The 2020 National HIV Testing Day theme is about the power of “Knowing” — knowing your HIV status, knowing your risk, knowing your prevention options, and knowing your treatment options.
Something New: This year also focuses on “HOME” self-testing as an option, as in-person patient-clinician contact is limited due to COVID-19 safety reasons. Please contact Sharon at 207-631-1536 or stomah@wabankihw.org to request a test.
Let’s Stop HIV Together!
Help people with HIV stay healthy!
HIV: It can happen to anyone
Increasing perception of risk
IT IS Everyone’s Issue:
- Youth
- Women
- Men
- Elders
Wool-lun-kay-uzz – Take good care of yourself!
Did you know?
1 in 4 Native American people living with HIV doesn’t know it yet. Is it you?
HIV does not discriminate. Anyone can get HIV.
What is HIV?
Human:
HIV only affects humans.
Immunodeficiency:
HIV breaks down our immunity system, leaving the body unable to fight infections and diseases.
Virus:
Viruses attack our cells, making us sick.
What is AIDS?
Acquired:
HIV has to enter your body to infect you.
Immune:
HIV weakens the immune system, making it easier to get sick.
Deficiency:
Our body cannot fight infection and diseases properly when our immune system is weak.
Syndrome:
Syndrome means more than one infection is attacking your body.
You can protect yourself.
How do we get HIV?
HIV is most commonly passed through unprotected vaginal, anal and oral sex, or through sharing needles with an infected person.
Why are we at risk?
Our communities are small and more vulnerable to diseases spreading rapidly.
Some of us engage in unprotected sex.
Misuse of substances, such as drugs or alcohol, can affect our judgement.
Many of us avoid testing for HIV because of the stigma and fear that we might be positive – and that others might find out.
How do we protect ourselves?
- Know the facts. Educate yourself about HIV/AIDS.
- Communicate honestly and openly about risks with partners before engaging in risky behaviors.
- If you are going to have any kind of sex, always use a condom or latex barrier.
- Stay in control. Don't combine sex with drugs or alcohol.
- Protect yourself. Never share needles or works.
- Get tested. You and your partner should get tested often.
Please note: This information is not intended to replace skilled medical care. If you have additional concerns, contact Wabanaki Health and Wellness or your local testing site, listed in the yellow box – above right, for assistance.
For more information, contact us or the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) at:
1-800-CDC-INFO or 1-800-232-4636
TTY: 1-888-232-6348
