news-record.com

The Guilford County Department of Public Health will provide free and confidential HIV and syphilis testing from 3 to 7 p.m. Sept. 12 at Open Door Ministries, 400 N. Centennial Street in High Point. No appointment is needed.

"Getting regular tests for HIV and syphilis is an important way of taking care of your health," health director Merle Green said. "Knowledge is power. If you're negative, you can take the steps necessary to keep it that way. If you're positive, syphilis is curable.

"While there's no cure for HIV, there are medications available to treat your symptoms and help you live a healthier life. You can also take precautions to avoid passing HIV/AIDS to others."

Free food, prizes and a raffle will be available for those who are tested.

Guilford County has a higher rate of HIV infection than the state average. Out of 100 counties in North Carolina, Guilford County ranks third for number of cases of HIV and syphilis. Nonwhite individuals are disproportionately affected by HIV disease.

For more information, call the Guilford County Department of Public Health at 641-7777.