BRADES, Montserrat (December 3, 2013) – A total of 128 people took the opportunity during the Check Your Health campaign on Monday, December 2, 2013 to be tested for HIV.
The campaign was an initiative of the Ministry of Health & Social Services in collaboration with DR Diagnostic Services in Little Bay.
According to Health Promotions Officer for the ministry Wayne Hunte, 43 people did the HIV rapid test which provided results in under 15 minutes. The St John’s Health Centre which facilitated the screenings also recorded 26 people receiving the diabetic foot care examination and 32 dental checks.
Raymond Samuels of DR Diagnostic Services said they surpassed their target of 20 with a total of 85 people taking the HIV rapid test. Samuels expressed disappointment that more men, especially young men had not taken the test. Of the 85, only 20 were men and all were over the age of 30. At the same time, the 65 women who took the test ranged in ages from 19 to 55.
The new company provided 20 free tests as well as pre-and post HIV test counselling. All of the tests conducted at DR Diagnostic were negative. Samuels noted that many were repeat testers. However, he said more needs to be done to reach those in the community who are most vulnerable and at high risk of contracting the disease due to lack of awareness and practicing unsafe habits.
This was the first time that rapid testing was being offered on Montserrat.
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Montserrat News