June 27^th is National HIV Testing Day—a reminder of the importance of routine screening for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Did you know that between 2021 and 2023, Boston had the highest rate of new HIV diagnoses of all cities in Massachusetts? While HIV is most commonly transmitted through unprotected sexual contact, other factors, such as substance use, unstable housing, and limited access to healthcare, can also increase a person’s risk of infection and transmission. A 2024 report from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health found that new HIV infections in Whittier’s service area are disproportionately impacting people who inject drugs and people experiencing homelessness.

We encourage all members of our community, and especially those at highest risk of HIV infection, to join us on June 27^th for our annual HIV Testing Day event. Our Infectious Disease and Special Populations Department will provide on-site, free, and confidential HIV testing to all participants and share health resources and information about HIV treatment and prevention. Getting tested is a simple but powerful step toward protecting your health and the health of your neighbors!

 GRAPHIC DESIGN BY: @DEVIN WILLIAMS

#NationalHIVTestingDay #HIVPrevention #EndTheStigma #WhittierStreetHealthCenter