As the world commemorates World AIDS Day on December 1, it's a vital opportunity to raise awareness about human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and the importance of regular testing. In Barrie, the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit is stepping up efforts to educate the public about HIV and offer free, anonymous rapid testing during two special events.

According to the Ontario Advisory Committee on HIV/AIDS, alarmingly, 11% of individuals living with HIV are unaware of their status. This lack of awareness means they miss out on effective treatments, compromising not only their health but also increasing the risk of unknowingly transmitting the virus to others.

HIV spreads primarily through sexual contact and sharing needles, as well as from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. However, the narrative surrounding HIV has changed dramatically with modern medical advancements. Treatments can reduce the viral load to undetectable levels, a breakthrough encapsulated in the phrase "Undetectable = Untransmittable" (U=U). Moreover, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has emerged as a proven method for those at high risk of contracting HIV, significantly lowering their chances of infection.

In celebration of World AIDS Day, the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit will collaborate with the Gilbert Centre to provide free HIV testing at the following events:

Event Details

- **Date:** Sunday, December 1 **Time:** 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM **Location:** Afternoon Drag Tea at the MacLaren Art Centre, 37 Mulcaster St., Barrie - **Date:** Monday, December 2 **Time:** 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM **Location:** Day With Art at Creative Nomad Studios, 23 Mississauga St. W., Orillia.

In addition to these events, free HIV and other sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBI) testing are also available through healthcare provider offices, walk-in clinics, and community health centers for those with an Ontario Health Card. Importantly, even without a health card, individuals can access free testing at various sexual health clinics across Simcoe Muskoka, including Barrie, Midland, Orillia, Collingwood, Elmvale, Gravenhurst, and Huntsville, all offered with confidentiality.

For those preferring privacy, the Gilbert Centre’s Get a Kit program allows individuals to receive free home-delivered HIV self-testing kits. This flexibility empowers individuals to take control of their sexual health discreetly.

Understanding HIV status is critical for making informed decisions regarding health and relationships. Open communication with partners about HIV status, regular testing, and using protective barriers like condoms or dental dams during sexual activities form the cornerstone of reducing the risk of HIV and other STBBIs.

Let’s take action together! For more information about testing services, you can book an appointment online at smdhu.org/TheClinic or call Health Connection during business hours at 705-721-7520 or toll-free at 1-877-721-7520.

Don’t miss this chance to protect your health and empower your community—join us for these important events this World AIDS Day!