• NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

    NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

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Residents Encouraged to Get Tested, Know Their Status, and Connect to Care

FREE HIV Rapid Testing Event 6 21 25 Eng FlyerClick to download flyer & share!Dalton, GA National HIV Testing Day, recognized each year on June 27th, is a vital awareness initiative that encourages people of all backgrounds to get tested for HIV and know their status. The North Georgia Health District is proud to join this year’s national observance under the theme, “Let’s Stop HIV Together,” as we urge residents in Cherokee, Fannin, Gilmer, Murray, Pickens, and Whitfield counties to take charge of their health.

As part of this effort, The Living Bridge Center, our Ryan White HIV Clinic program, will host a special community event in Dalton on Saturday, June 21st, from 11 AM to 3 PM at the Mack Gaston Community Center. FREE HIV Rapid Testing will be offered, and the first 20 people to get tested will receive gift bags! Mack Gaston Community Center is at 218 North Fredrick Street, Dalton, GA 30721.

HIV testing is the gateway to prevention, treatment, and long-term well-being. Early diagnosis allows individuals to begin life-saving treatment and prevent the spread of the virus to others. With treatment, people with HIV can live long, healthy lives—and those who achieve an undetectable viral load cannot transmit HIV to their partners.

“We’re committed to reducing the stigma around HIV testing and ensuring our communities have easy access to the services they need,” said K. Mills McNeill, MD, PhD, District Health Director. “National HIV Testing Day is the perfect opportunity to start a conversation, get tested, and take control of your health.”

HIV prevention, testing, and treatment services are available year-round at all six county public health departments in the North Georgia Health District and at The Living Bridge Center clinics in Canton, Dalton, and Gainesville. Services are fast, confidential, and often available at little to no cost.

How to Get Involved:

  • Get tested at your local health department or The Living Bridge Center.
  • Encourage others to know their status.
  • Share awareness using social media and community networks.
  • Partner with organizations to promote HIV testing and education.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of National HIV Testing Day. According to HIV.gov, National HIV Testing Day (NHTD) was first observed on June 27, 1995. This is a day to encourage people to get tested for HIV, know their status, and get linked to care and treatment.

By working together, we can help end the HIV epidemic and support healthier futures for all.

Learn more about National HIV Testing Day at HIV.gov.

Find out about all the services The Living Bridge Center clinics offer at nghd.org/tlbc-home.