Drop-In Clinic and Red Scarves are highlights of World AIDS Day in Health Unit Area

Timmins, Ontario — World AIDS Day is observed annually on the first day of December in communities around the world. In recognition of World AIDS Day, the Porcupine Health Unit (PHU) area will once again be decorated in red scarves. As a northern twist on the red AIDS ribbon, Friday November 29 health unit staff will be hanging red scarves in multiple communities across the area. Each scarf will come with a card containing information about HIV prevention and testing. Any remaining scarves will be collected and given to community members in need. 

The only way a person knows if they have the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is by getting tested. HIV testing is readily available, accessible, and free of charge. It can be requested through a health care provider, a self-testing kit can be obtained online, or you can book for testing at the PHU where anonymous and rapid testing are available. “Stigma around HIV and AIDS can prevent people from getting tested and receiving the treatment they need,” states Kassandra Gaudette, Public Health Nurse (PHN) with the Harm Reduction Team at the PHU.

“In support of World AIDS Day, the Porcupine Health Unit will be hosting a drop-in clinic for bloodborne infection testing on Monday, December 2, 2024, between 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Timmins office,” said Gaudette. “Free HIV testing without an appointment will be provided by PHNs. Information on prevention strategies, and details on other blood-borne illnesses such as Hepatitis C and Syphilis, will also be available”.