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

Timmins, Ontario — Monday, November 27, 2023

Every year, communities around the world recognize the first day of December as World AIDS Day. This year, the Porcupine Health Unit (PHU) encourages people to learn more, get tested, take measures to reduce the risk, and show support.  

Testing is the only way to know if a person has HIV. Testing for HIV is easily accessible and free. 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 (anonymous and rapid testing available).  “In honour of World AIDS Day, the Porcupine Health Unit will be offering a drop-in clinic for HIV testing on Friday December 1, 2023, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Timmins office,” said Mary France Caron-Bruneau, coordinator of the sexual health program at the PHU. “Public Health Nurses will be available to provide free HIV testing without a booked appointment. They will also be able to provide information on prevention strategies, and information on other blood-borne illnesses such as Hepatitis C.”

The Porcupine Health Unit will also be decorating downtown streets with red scarves, hats, and mitts across the PHU area to highlight World AIDS Day. According to Caron-Bruneau, this northern spin on the symbolic red ribbon allows community members to show their support in ending the stigma around HIV. “Stigma about HIV and AIDS can prevent people from getting tested and getting the treatment they need,” she added. Each scarf will include a card with information about HIV prevention and testing. Any remaining scarves will be gathered and given to community members in need.