Get Healthy: Get tested Carson City: HIV testing is a good idea

This column appears in the Nevada Appeal Wednesday health pages. It addresses topics related to the health of our community.

Q: Is HIV testing available in Carson City?

A: HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) testing is available at Carson City Health and Human Services (CCHHS) five days a week, without an appointment. The rapid finger-stick test is offered at low or no cost and it provides results within 15 minutes. The testing process involves the highest level of confidentiality, counseling, education and support. All persons who are sexually active or use drugs should be tested routinely, even if they do not believe themselves to be at risk.

"People needn't fear the stigma of having an HIV test," says Elaine Bergenheier, CCHHS HIV Services Coordinator. "There really are no barriers or valid excuses. The staff here is wonderful, very discreet and very experienced. No one is going to judge you or be shocked."

Today, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately 250,000 Americans are living with HIV but are unaware of their HIV status. Sometimes the disease has not yet manifested, or when symptoms do show up, they mimic other ailments.

Often the early symptoms are respiratory, and that can be misleading.

"The look of HIV is quite different from before, mostly because of better medications", says Elaine. "Folks who are positive can look as healthy as anyone else." Many people recall the first medication approved for HIV by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA): AZT. We now have far more effective replacements for AZT.

People living with HIV or AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome, the more serious of the two), are no longer given a death sentence. The disease is still serious, but people with AIDS, like diabetics, can manage their situation. "You don't read about AIDS-related deaths much any more. Now people are more apt to succumb to a side effect or an opportunistic disease," adds Elaine.

Managing the disease means eating well, refraining from unhealthy activities and having regular medical care. The good news is that these days, people with AIDS can have completely healthy lives. Their lives are different and their priorities are different, but overall, things are pretty manageable.

The Test

The test takes place in a private office and involves a finger prick which most people feel, yet some do not. It is done with a tiny lancet, and the droplet of blood runs into a little tube. Literally as you wait, the blood absorbs into a strip which eventually shows the results: positive or negative. All of this takes place in the presence of you and the healthcare worker. During the brief waiting period, some paperwork and statistical data taking occurs. If the results are positive, one-on-one counseling happens on the spot. CCHHS also has a confidential weekly HIV support group.

Free Safe-Sex Kits

Anyone who comes to the clinic at CCHHS may have a Safe-Sex Kit. The kits contain condoms, lubricant and disease and pregnancy prevention information. There is no cost, no obligation, and no paperwork.

"These condoms are in trendy packaging, meant to be conversation pieces," says Elaine. "A big part of condom use is in the negotiation, and these open the door to conversation."

Last month, CCHHS gave out 115 Safe Sex Kits. Kits are available for the asking in the clinic at the check-in counter.

It's all about Public Health.

June 27 is National HIV Testing Day

The purpose of National HIV Testing Day is to raise awareness about the importance of HIV testing. All persons who are sexually active or use drugs should be tested routinely, even if they do not believe themselves to be at risk. With early diagnosis, individuals can know their HIV status and can be placed in appropriate treatment and care.

Carson City Health and Human Services

Clinic Hours: Monday-Wednesday and Friday

9 a.m. to 4 p.m., by appointment

(775) 887-2195

Thursday is Immunization Day

8:30-11:30 a.m.; 1-4:30 p.m.

No appointment needed

(775) 887-2195

• Pam Graber is the public information officer for Carson City Health and Human Services.