HIV Testing/PReP

ABOUT HIV

HIV affects people of every age, race, gender, and orientation. Millions of people in the United States have HIV, including people who are unaware of their status. For people with undiagnosed HIV, testing is the first step in maintaining a healthy life and preventing HIV transmission. The CDC recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 gets tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. Sexually active gay and bisexual men may benefit from more frequent testing. Even if you are in a monogamous relationship (both you and your partner are having sex only with each other), you should find out for sure whether you or your partner has HIV.

Georgia Highlands Medical Services offers HIV testing at all locations. The medication, Truvada, is available for purchase at our Highlands Pharmacy and can also be prescribed by our providers. Don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule an appointment today!

What is HIV?

HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system. If left undiagnosed or untreated, it can become life-threatening, but HIV is manageable.

How Can HIV Spread?

There are only a couple of specific ways that HIV is passed on—through blood and sexual body fluids. It is NOT spread by air, water, saliva, sweat,

tears, kissing, insects, pets, toilets, food, or drinks.

Who is at Risk?

Everyone. HIV affects people of every age, race, gender, and orientation. While some are more at risk than others, we all fall somewhere in the stats.

What is PreP?

PrEP is a method for people who are HIV negative to prevent and reduce the risk of HIV infection by taking one pill a day. Studies have shown that

PrEP is highly effective for preventing HIV when used as prescribed.

Who Should Use PreP?

PrEP was created for those who may be at risk for contracting HIV from sex.