At Healthcare Unity Group Inc (HUG), we are committed to promoting health and wellness within our communities. That’s why we proudly offer free rapid HIV testing at our clinics in Kearny, New Jersey, and Melbourne, Florida. Our goal is to provide accessible, confidential, and reliable testing services to everyone who needs them, empowering individuals with the knowledge they need to take charge of their health.
Why Get Tested for HIV?
HIV testing is a crucial step in protecting your health and the health of those around you. Knowing your HIV status can:
- Help you take steps to stay healthy if you test positive.
- Provide peace of mind if you test negative.
- Reduce the risk of unknowingly transmitting HIV to others.
- Connect you to prevention resources, like PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), if you’re HIV-negative but at higher risk of exposure.
Who Should Get Tested?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. However, certain groups should consider getting tested more frequently:
- Individuals who have had unprotected sex with a new or multiple partners.
- People with a history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- Those who share needles or syringes for drug use.
- Anyone who has had sexual contact with someone living with HIV.
- Pregnant individuals or those planning to become pregnant.
- People who are unsure of their partner’s HIV status.
When to Get Tested?
Timing is important for accurate HIV test results. If you believe you’ve been exposed to HIV, here’s what you need to know about the testing window:
- Immediate Exposure: If you’ve had a recent potential exposure, such as unprotected sex or needle sharing, consider seeking immediate medical advice about post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which must be started within 72 hours to be effective.
- Rapid HIV Testing Window: Most rapid HIV tests can detect HIV antibodies within 2 to 8 weeks after exposure. For the most accurate results, testing at 3 months post-exposure is recommended to rule out any possibility of a false negative.
- Regular Screening: If you are at ongoing risk for HIV, schedule regular testing every 3 to 6 months.
What to Expect During Rapid HIV Testing
Our rapid HIV testing process is simple, quick, and confidential:
- You’ll meet with one of our trained healthcare professionals who will answer any questions and discuss your concerns.
- A small sample of blood or oral fluid will be collected for testing.
- Your results will be available within 20 minutes, and our team will explain what they mean and provide any next steps or resources you may need.
Visit Us Today
We invite you to take advantage of our free rapid HIV testing services at HUG. No appointments are necessary, and walk-ins are welcome. Together, we can work toward healthier communities and brighter futures.
- Kearny, New Jersey Clinic: 405 Kearny Ave, Kearny, New Jersey, 07032
- Melbourne, Florida Clinic: 1920 S. Babcock Street, Melbourne, Florida, 32901
If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our services, don’t hesitate to contact us. Your health and well-being are our top priorities!