To encourage HIV testing, the Putnam County Department of Health, in partnership with Hudson Valley Community Services and Planned Parenthood, will be offering free rapid HIV testing and counseling at three sites in Putnam County Monday, June 27:
- Health Department, 1 Geneva Road, Brewster from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- A mobile testing van at Putnam Family and Community Services, 1816 Route 6, Carmel from 4-6 p.m.
- A testing van at Hudson Valley Community Services, 46 Oscawana Lake Road, Putnam Valley from noon to 5 p.m.
Nearly 1.2 million people in the United States are living with HIV, according to estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta and approximately one in eight of them do not know they are infected.
“Early diagnosis allows us to begin treatment promptly,” said Michael Nesheiwat, Putnam County’s interim commissioner of health. “This can make a big difference in the patient’s outcome and can help limit the spread of the virus.”
Privacy and confidentiality are ensured. No appointments are necessary and results are ready in 20 minutes. Free condoms, giveaways and educational information will be available at all sites. HIV can affect anyone regardless of age, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity or gender. For more information visit the Putnam County Department of Health's website.
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