Experts stress importance of routine testing for National HIV Testing Day
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) - The fight against HIV is far from over, and growing uncertainty around federal support isn't helping.
This year, fears grew when the Trump administration proposed deep cuts to HIV prevention programs, both in the U.S. and abroad. The proposals included ending support for CDC prevention efforts, vaccine research, and global treatment access. Public health leaders warned the cuts could lead to thousands of new infections per day worldwide.
After backlash from health advocates and lawmakers, the administration reversed course. But this hasn't eased worry among advocates, with ongoing changes in federal policy and a funding period of 12 months.
Manny Muro, program manager at DAP Health, says the work isn't over.
“It’s really important to utilize those services that are out here. Obviously, there’s going to be some contention with the federal government but we’re doing our part and we’re helping out our community right here in the Coachella Valley.”
Manny Muro, DAP Health program manager
That starts with increased accessibility to testing.
This National HIV Testing Day, DAP Health offered free, rapid HIV tests at six Walgreens locations across the Coachella Valley.
But Muro says there are still exisiting barriers keeping people from utilizing them.
“It’s important to know not everyone is getting tested so there’s a lot of undiagnosed HIV transmissions out there that we don’t even know. First step of knowing is getting tested... The stigma is very real. I think people are afraid to know their status because it’s engrained that, we don’t talk about those things.”
Manny Muro, DAP Health program manager
DAP Health is urging routine testing for early treatment and stopping the spread.
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