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DOH-BAY OFFERS FREE HIV TESTING IN OBSERVANCE OF NATIONAL BLACK HIV/AIDS AWARENESS DAY

February 06, 2020

Panama City, Fla.— February 7 is National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day. This year’s theme is “We’re in This Together.” The them highlights the importance of social support- from friends, family, colleagues, and partners- when addressing HIV in the black community. The Florida Department of Health in Bay County (DOH-Bay) is observing the day by offering free rapid HIV testing and Hepatitis-C (Hep-C) screenings.

“One way we feel people can offer support to their loved ones is by encouraging them to get tested for HIV,” said Sandon S. Speedling, MHS, CPM, CPH, Administrator/Health Officer. “The CDC’s guideline is that everyone should be tested at least once in their lifetime.”

Testing will be offering on Friday, February 7 from 10 am to 3 pm in DOH-Bay’s Mobile Medical Unit. The until will be at Grocery Outlet of Callaway, 225 South Tyndall Parkway, Panama City. In addition to HIV and Hep-C screenings, DOH-bay will also offer education and resources, free give-a-ways, and a special gift for those who get tested. Hep A vaccinations will also be available.

For more information, call DOH-Bay’s HIV Division at 850-252-9597. You may also visit us online at Bay.FloridaHealth.gov or follow us on Twitter @FLHealthEmerald. Additional information and resources on HIV can be found at KnowYourHIVStatus.com.

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 Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @HealthyFla. For more information about the Florida Department of Health, please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov .