March 3, 2022 BY imani leave a comment
Getting tested is the only way to find out if an individual is HIV positive or negative even before symptoms set in. A lot of people overlook the importance of routine HIV testing because they feel nervous or are simply ignorant about the risks. The best way to calm your nerves and quit worrying is by getting yourself tested routinely. Here are some major reasons why HIV testing must be normalized for all:
- It is always better to know: The popular saying “Ignorance is bliss” does not apply here. Knowing your HIV status can help get you on the right track regardless of the result. If you are negative, you can get further information on how to keep it that way and if you are positive, you can start treatment and get educated on how to stay healthy.
- It is quick and easy: Rapid testing methods have made HIV testing to be super easy and accessible in our society today, it is even possible in some places today to run your HIV test from the comfort of your home! This convenience is to make sure that individuals can routinely carry out tests without significant hindrance.
- Early detection: Early detection of HIV is important because it gives the opportunity to manage the symptoms and prevent progression to AIDS. Early detection of HIV-positive cases also helps to curb the spread of the virus as HIV-positive cases can be educated about safe sex practices to protect their partners and loved ones.
HIV does not target certain individuals, nor does it care about gender, sexuality or race, normalize testing is our route to beating HIV & AIDS. We want to encourage us all to rededicate ourselves towards challenging the stigma associated with HIV and to normalize routine testing.