Monroe to provide free HIV testing
6/10/2013The Monroe County Health Department will offer free and anonymous HIV testing on June 27 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 1 to 4:30 p.m. at the health department, 2353 S. Custer Rd., in Monroe.
The test involves the collection of mucosal cells in the cheek and gum areas of the mouth with a swab — no needles or blood.
It is available to anyone 13 years of age and older. Parental consent is not required.
Last year, more than 18,500 Michigan residents were HIV positive. About 100 of them lived in Monroe County, according to the Michigan Department of Community Health.
Kim Comerzan, the county health department’s health officer, said the testing is in observance of National HIV Testing Day.
“Our goal for recognition and participation in National HIV Testing Day is to raise public awareness and educate individuals about HIV counseling, testing, and referral, as well as to encourage more people to assess their risk of HIV infection,” she said in a statement. For more information, call 734-240-7800.