Local Health officials promote HIV-AIDS testing Saturday

A new study shows Richmond and Burke counties have unusually high numbers of people infected with HIV and AIDS.  That’s one reason local health officials are trying to get the word out about national HIV-AIDS testing day this weekend.

The Centers for Disease Control estimates more than one million Americans are living with HIV, and one quarter of those don’t know they’re infected.
 
Richmond County health educator Sandra Wimberly says, “on Saturday, we’re asking people.  If I could get down on my bended knees, I’d ask you to please come and get tested because it is really important to know what your status is.“   
 
That testing is this Saturday, June 27th, which is national HIV-AIDS testing day and it’s free.