New York: Bronx Takes the Fight Against HIV to the Next Level

The New York City Department of Health and hundreds of community groups have launched a new initiative aimed at encouraging all residents of the Bronx between ages 18 and 64 to learn their HIV status within the next three years.

"Although HIV treatments have successfully prolonged the lives of infected people, new infections are still occurring at epidemic rates, especially among women and people of color," said Adolfo Carrion Jr., Bronx borough president. "Everyone should be practicing safer sex to ensure their protection from all [STDs]. HIV testing helps citizens act responsibly toward their partners and take steps to preserve their own lives as well."

While nearly 70 percent of Bronx residents have been tested for HIV at some point, residents of the borough still make up more than one-third of annual AIDS deaths in New York City and one-quarter of new HIV infections. More than 250,000 Bronx residents have never been tested for HIV.

"The Bronx Knows" campaign is making it easy for people to get tested, with more than 40 locations offering confidential, rapid HIV testing. For a complete list of locations, telephone 311 in New York City or visit www.nyc.gov/bronxhivtesting.

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