Today is observed as National HIV Testing Day, a day to bring awareness to the need for all Arizonans to be aware of their HIV status.

The Arizona Department of Health Services’ (ADHS) Office of HIV & Hepatitis C Services is proud to support HIV testing not only on this day, but year-round through at-home test kits and in-person testing at partnering county health departments and community organizations.

From 2019 to 2023, ADHS supported partners in conducting 76,078 rapid HIV tests, 220,393 lab-based tests, and distributing 13,659 home test kits. 

Everyone should get tested for HIV at least once in their life. ADHS HIV Prevention Program partners will be observing this year’s National HIV Testing Day by providing rapid HIV tests, PrEP navigation, education and community resources at locations around Arizona. Find a location near you to get tested.

National HIV Testing Day was created by the National Association of People with AIDS (NAPWA). It was first observed in 1995 to show the importance of knowing one’s HIV status. 

Today we see many communities using their lived experiences to foster policy change by advocating for harm reduction programs, accessible housing, and more to advance vulnerable community members’ wellness while centering their joy, culture, and history. Although the HIV landscape has changed, many communities are still navigating the trauma and harm of the early days of the AIDS epidemic. To be able to join, fund, and honor activities that support National HIV Testing Day is to stand with communities that have shown great resilience. 

The Centers for Disease Control HIV data show there’s been a 12% decline in HIV infections in 2022 versus 2018. Additionally, there was a 30% decrease in HIV infections among people ages 13 to 24, which is one of the most vulnerable populations. This not only shows how crucial HIV prevention programming is, but how dedicated public health professionals, funding sources, and community members and leaders are helping to end HIV.

ADHS’ HIV Prevention Program works with various jurisdictions, community based organizations, clinics, grassroots organizations, and committees to address social, financial and structural factors that place Arizonans at risk for contracting HIV. Activities funded by the HIV Prevention Program include:

  • HIV testing services provided by county health departments and community-based organizations.
  • Partner services provide a set of free, confidential services designed to reduce the spread of HIV by facilitating the confidential identification and notification of partners who may have been unknowingly exposed to HIV. Individuals are provided with HIV testing and linkages to prevention and care services.
  • Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) navigation
  • Focused interventions to people living with HIV and their partners, and people at high risk of contracting HIV.
  • Condom distribution including bulk distribution to agencies, outreach, and mail-order to individuals.
  • Media and social marketing initiatives targeted to high-risk populations.
  • Capacity building and technical assistance to HIV programs and providers.

Knowing one’s HIV status is how we center our health and wellness. This National HIV Testing Day, take the opportunity to get tested and know your status.