June 27 marks the 21th annual observance of National HIV Testing Day. This observance promotes the importance of HIV testing and education to help stop the spread of HIV. One of the most important steps in preventing HIV is to get tested and know your status, as well as the status of your partner.

Florida has been heavily impacted by the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The state continues to rank third in the nation in the cumulative number of AIDS cases (126,581 in 2012) and second in the nation in the cumulative number of HIV cases (49,058 in 2012). The Florida Department of Health estimates that approximately 130,000 individuals are living with HIV disease in Florida. Of those persons living with HIV disease, 49% are black, 29% are white and 20% are Hispanic. Men represent 70% of the cases.Persons over the age of 45 years represent 60% of the cases.

The Florida Department of Health in Monroe County encourages all Floridians to get tested and know their status. Those at particular risk for contracting HIV include anyone who practices unprotected sex, ever had a pre-existing sexually transmitted disease, or ever used intravenous drugs.

The first and one of the most important steps in the fight against HIV/AIDS is being aware of one’s own status. About 1 in 8 people are living with HIV and don’t know it. Some of the free activities planned in Key West to mark National HIV Testing Day are as follows:

You can also find an HIV/STD test site 24/7 at www.hivtest.org or Text your zip code to “KNOWIT” (566-948). More information can be found here or by visiting www.floridahealth.gov.

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About the Florida Department of Health
The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts. Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.