NEWS

Free HIV testing offered by Calhoun County Health Dept.

Battle Creek Enquirer

The Calhoun County Public Health Department (CCPHD) is participating in National HIV Test Day Monday by offering free HIV testing at a variety of locations in Calhoun County, including the jail.

Free testing will be available:

• 8 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, at the Health Department in Battle Creek, 190 E. Michigan Ave.

• 8 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3:30 p.m., Monday-Wednesday and Thursday, in Albion, at 214 E. Michigan Ave.

The test is done through a blood draw, or the Rapid HIV test, which is similar to the finger poke for a glucose test, and allows clients to receive their results within 20 minutes. All HIV testing is confidential and free.

According to a health department news release, people at higher risk for HIV include men who have sex with men, intravenous drug users, and individuals with multiple sex partners, especially those who do not use condoms consistently.

For more information, call the CCPHD at 269-969-6493.