Only 74.9% of people living with HIV in Tulare County are in care. Get tested this week | Opinion

As we approach National HIV Testing Day, it’s crucial to understand the state of HIV in our community and the vital importance of knowing one’s status. In Tulare County, we’re facing a concerning trend: new HIV diagnoses have more than doubled from three in April 2023 to seven in April 2024. More than 15,000 people in the Central Valley and over 142,000 throughout California are living with HIV.

These numbers aren’t just statistics; they represent our neighbors, friends and family members. Each new diagnosis is a reminder of the ongoing challenge we face in combating HIV. But there’s hope in these numbers, too, because each person who knows their status is empowered to take control of their health and prevent further transmission.

However, we’re falling short in providing comprehensive care. Only 74.9% of people living with HIV in Tulare County are in care, and a mere 62.6% are virally suppressed. This gap in care not only affects individual health outcomes, it also increases the risk of new transmissions.

These figures underscore why National HIV Testing Day is so critical. As director of HIV Services at The Source LGBT+ Center in Visalia, I invite our community to join us in recognizing National HIV Testing Day on Thursday, June 27. This annual observance serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of HIV testing and early detection in our ongoing fight against the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

When it comes to HIV prevention, knowledge is power. Early detection allows for prompt treatment, which not only improves health outcomes but also significantly reduces the risk of transmission. With modern anti-retroviral therapies, people diagnosed with HIV can lead long, healthy lives and effectively manage their condition.

It’s a common misconception that HIV only affects certain communities. The reality is that HIV doesn’t discriminate. Anyone can be affected, regardless of age, gender or sexual orientation. This is why regular testing should be a normal part of everyone’s healthcare routine.

For those who might feel anxious about getting tested, it’s important to know that the process is quick, confidential and, often, free. Many local healthcare providers, including The Source LGBT+ Center, offer free rapid tests that provide results in just 20 minutes. This quick turnaround time means you can have peace of mind or be connected to care immediately if needed.

Beyond testing, we offer comprehensive services for those living with HIV or seeking prevention options. Our Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) programs provide access to medications that can significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission. For those who test positive, we offer linkage to care, support services and a welcoming community of peers.

I urge everyone to consider the impact that a simple test can have. By knowing your status, you’re not only taking control of your own health, you’re also contributing to the broader public health of our community. Every person who gets tested, every new diagnosis that leads to treatment and every individual who starts PrEP brings us one step closer to ending the HIV epidemic.

Join us on Thursday at The Source LGBT+ Center for free rapid HIV testing from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Together, we can build a healthier, more informed community and move closer to a future free from HIV.

This story was originally published June 26, 2024 at 6:00 AM.