Know your HIV status with simple testing options

Routine health screenings, such as annual checkups, blood pressure checks and cancer screenings, are an important part of staying healthy. It is recommended that everyone ages 13-64 be tested for HIV at least once. People with certain risk factors should be tested more often. Anyone of any age, race or gender can be affected by HIV, and this screening should be a normal part of your health care routine.

Knowing your status helps you make healthy decisions to prevent getting or transmitting HIV. If results are positive, you can live a long, healthy life by getting proper medical care and taking prescribed medication. Proper treatment lowers the chances of spreading HIV to others.

The Medina County Health Department offers three options for HIV testing:

• Meet with a doctor or nurse practitioner at the MCHD Health Center for a reproductive health checkup, including screening for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Locations are available in Medina and Wadsworth. Call 330-723-9688 and choose option 1 to schedule an appointment.

• Meet with a public health nurse for a free, confidential HIV screening. Call 330-723-9688 and choose option 2 to schedule an appointment.

• Receive an at-home self-testing kit. A limited number of kits are available for confidential screening at home, with follow-up support from a public health nurse. Kits can be picked up at the Health Department or mailed. Call 330-723-9688, option 2, or visit medinahealth.org/hiv to request a kit.

Now is the time to take control of your health. Contact the Medina County Health Department for more information on routine screenings, including HIV testing.

The Medina County Health Department has protected community health since 1918. Services are partially supported by the property tax health levy. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.