National HIV Testing Day
The 11th annual National HIV Testing Day, sponsored by the National Association of People with AIDS, is June 27, 2005. This event provides a valuable opportunity to focus community attention on the importance of being tested and to encourage individuals to know their HIV status. In 2004, 39 agencies participated in Virginia's Testing Day efforts.
The Division of HIV, STD, and Pharmacy Services will assist in the promotion of this event through distribution of a press release and event listing to 626 media outlets across the state. Events will also be posted to the VDH web site. Currently we are waiting on approval from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to support radio ads during the last two weeks of June.
If your agencyis planning any events in recognition of HIV Testing Day, please complete and return the attached form. The deadline for submission to guarantee posting on the web site is June 13, 2005.
Additional information, campaign planning kits and posters can be downloaded from www.napwa.org/hivtestinfo/. The theme from previous years, "Take the Test, Take Control", will be used again this year. The posters include the phrase: "I got tested for HIV to take control of my health and my life. What's your reason?" The Division will also be distributing Virginia specific fact sheets with space for local contact information.
If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact me at Elaine.Martin@vdh.virginia.gov or at (804) 864-7962