National HIV Testing Day is Saturday, June 27. South Carolinians are encouraged to get tested for HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) to protect themselves and prevent the spread of diseases.
As of Dec. 31, 2024, there are more than 20,000 residents in the state living with diagnosed HIV infection, including AIDS. For the two-year period of 2023-2024, approximately 1,600 people were newly diagnosed with HIV in South Carolina.
The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) reports that of those newly diagnosed, 55% were African-American, 24% were white and 16% were Hispanic.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 16% of people with HIV in South Carolina do not know their HIV status.
Free HIV and STD testing is being offered at many DPH health departments Thursday, June 25, two days before the national observance. Appointments are encouraged. Please call 1-855-472-3432 to schedule your appointment.
Additional information and important resources can also be found on DPH’s HIV/AIDS webpage.