A community-led HIV campaign is taking place this week, to mark the 35th World AIDS Day in Cayman.
The Health Services Authority, Cayman AIDS Foundation, and the Cayman Islands Red Cross have joined forces to host free-of-charge HIV testing through Friday, 1 Dec.
No appointment is necessary, and the waiting time for tests is usually less than 10 minutes, a press release from the Health Services Authority said.
Anyone seeking testing or counselling can indicate to the registration clerks that they would like to register. The procedure involves a quick and simple blood test.
The results will be available within three working days and given to the patient in person only at the clinic where they took the test, to protect the individual’s confidentiality and offer post-test counselling, the press release added.
Free HIV screening is also offered year-round, on the third Tuesday of the month at the Cayman Islands Red Cross on Huldah Avenue in George Town from 10am to 2pm.
It has been three years since the last HIV testing week to mark World AIDS Day.
Testing schedule
George Town General Practice Clinic: Monday, 27 Nov., to Friday, 1 Dec., 10am-1pm. 244-2833, 244-2858
Bodden Town Health Centre: Tuesday, 28 Nov., and 1 Dec. 9am-12 pm. 947-2299.
West Bay Health Centre: Wednesday, 29 Nov., and Friday, 1 Dec., 9am-11am. 949-3439.
East End Health Centre: Tuesday, 28 Nov., and Friday, 1 Dec., 9am-11am. 947-7440.
North Side Health Centre: Monday, 27 Nov., and Wednesday, 29 Nov., 9am-11am. 947-9525.
Cayman AIDS Foundation, George Town Financial Centre, 90 Fort Street, George Town: Thursday, 30 Nov., 3pm-5pm. 946-3029.
Faith Hospital (Public Health Department) Aston Rutty Medical Wing, Cayman Brac: Friday, 1 Dec., 10am-1pm. 948-2243.
Little Cayman Clinic: Wednesday, 29 Nov., 10am-1pm. 948-0072, 948-0114.
‘More determined than ever’
In a press release, Cayman AIDS Foundation said it was proud to join the global community in recognising World AIDS Day under the theme ‘Remember and Commit’.
“As we reflect on the journey of the past 35 years, we remain steadfast in our commitment to serve the Cayman Islands,” the foundation said.
“We are more determined than ever to reinforce our support for the citizens of this remarkable nation.”
The foundation said World AIDS Day, observed annually on 1 Dec., is not just a day of remembrance, but also a day of action and unity.
“In 2023, we remember the countless lives affected by HIV and AIDS, their stories, and their resilience,” the press release added.
“We honour the progress made in combating this disease and express our unwavering support to those currently living with HIV.”
This year the foundation has recommitted itself to serve the Cayman public.
“We acknowledge that there is much work to be done, and we are ready to tackle the challenges ahead,” the foundation said.
“We are determined to increase awareness about HIV and AIDS… to ensure that every person living in the Cayman Islands is informed and supported.”
It asked the public to commit to a future free from the stigma and discrimination associated with this disease.
The Cayman AIDS Foundation is a non-profit organisation dedicated to raising awareness, providing support, and preventing the spread of HIV in the Cayman Islands.
It offers education, testing and support services to those affected. More information is available at the foundation’s website.
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