HIV Advocates Reminds You of the Importance of Getting Tested

Have you been tested for HIV? If your first reaction to that question was fear, you aren't alone. It's the universal reaction to getting tested for HIV. The good news is that this fear can be managed. How? With the large community of supportive HIV advocates that Advocacy 2.0 provides at your side. HIV testing can be a daunting thing, but being tested is the most important step in our battle to end HIV and AIDS.
 
Knowing your HIV status empowers you to do the right thing not only for yourself, but also the people around you. Making the unknown is known is a powerful catalyst in fighting against the spread of HIV.
Getting tested serves as a good reminder to practise safe sex and refresh your sexual health knowledge. Knowledge is power, and familiarizing yourself with the truths of contracting HIV will help you fight social stigma when you encounter it.
Knowing your status allows you to plan for the future. Should you test positive, counselors can guide your next course of action. You can also join an HIV-group for moral support and guidance. It is about taking the rein of control over the virus, and not the other way round.
 
Unless you get tested, it is impossible to know if you need life-saving treatment and care. Detected early on, it’s possible to live a long life with HIV. However, without proper treatment, HIV can take a large toll on your health and life expectancy.
The bottom line is that getting tested is an act of respect. It proves that you respect yourself and your partner. No matter how safe you were and are, accidents still happen and it’s better to be informed than ignorant.
Don't be afraid of your status. Get tested regularly at a facility near you and join your fellow HIV advocates in the fight against HIV and AIDS.
Where do you get tested in your country? Feel free to share in the comment section.

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