Free HIV testing offered Tuesday, Wednesday
CMU will offer free HIV testing to students from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday in Foust Hall Room 104.
Health Educator Chris Lauckner of the Central Michigan District Health Department, 2012 E. Preston Ave., said HIV testing is important so people know the status of their health, for their own protection as well as the protection of any potential partners.
“If the test is positive, with early detection, we can get the appropriate medical attention they need at a much earlier point,” he said.
According to the AIDS Partnership in Michigan, there are 20 known cases of HIV in Isabella County.
“For those people who are new to campus and have never been tested, this may be good opportunity to experience what it means to move through the testing process,” Lauckner said. “People aren’t sure what to except, but it’s a very simple format, very easy and user friendly.”
More than 950,000 people in the United States are infected with HIV. Of that number, 300,000 people don’t know they are infected, Lauckner said.
“There are 40,000 new infections per year in the United States and half of those people are under the age of 25,” Lauckner said.
In recent years an average of 150 students have received testing and Lauckner said they are hoping to get more than 100 this time.
“We would be very happy if people would come out and be tested,” he said.
An OraSure method will be used to administer the test, which does not involve a blood sample.
“Basically it is through the mouth and is a very, very simple method,” he said. “Sometimes students shy away from testing because of blood pulls.”
Results will be issued from 1:40 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Sept. 30 in Foust Hall Room 104.
“If that time isn’t convenient we can set up another time where students can come to the Health Department,” he said.
In the state of Michigan, those who are tested by law have to physically receive their results, Lauckner said. The department will not be able to give out information over the phone.
Counselors will be available to answer questions that may arise prior to the test and a fact sheet regarding the risks of HIV also will be handed out.
The Central Michigan Health Department, located on corner of Preston and Isabella Road, always offers free HIV testing.
Anyone with questions regarding HIV or HIV testing can contact University Health Services at 774-6599.
Central Michigan Life reporter Jessica Bodmer contributed to this story.
