by Anthony de Jesús, Integrated Paseo
Hundreds of thousands of deaths were taking place in the 1990’s because of the Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Since then, there has been a significant decrease due to treatment and people becoming more aware of ways to protect themselves from HIV, the Hepatitis-C Virus (HCV), and other sexually transmitted infections (STI’s). Within communities that engage in unprotected sex or that use illegal drugs, individuals are taking precautions to make sure they do not become exposed.
Integrated PASEO has a responsibility to these communities to decrease this prevalence of HIV, HCV, and STI’s and to stop the spread while increasing awareness. Every weekday, Integrated PASEO offers testing to individuals for HIV, HCV, and STI’s. For anyone who tests positive, a referral is made for treatment; any individual who screens positive for substance abuse and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), they are allowed to participate in the free Seeking Safety Counseling Program.
Feel free to stop by the Norwegian American Hospital location on any weekday, Monday through Friday, at anytime between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to get tested or stop by the Garfield Park Community Center location on any weekday, Mondaythrough Friday, at anytime between9:00 AM and 12:00 PM to receive free HIV and HCV testing and screening, free harm reduction kits, free female and male condoms, and free pack