Georgia: Health Fair to Focus on HIV Testing

Every three days in Middle Georgia, another person is diagnosed with HIV or AIDS, says Dr. Harold Katner, Mercer University's chief of infectious diseases and a state medical adviser. According to the North Central Health District, blacks have been particularly affected by the disease. On Friday, National HIV Testing Day, Macon will host a fair offering free HIV screening to help those infected get treatment and stop HIV's spread.

We "don't want anyone to have any reason not to come," said Nicky Gary, health educator for the Macon-Bibb County Health Department on Emery Highway, where the fair will be held.

Each hour, a gasoline card worth $25 will be given out to a person who receives an HIV test. Nineteen agencies will be participating, including those offering services to the homeless such as job search and energy assistance. There will be live entertainment, and kids can enjoy bouncing in a moonwalk. Power 107 FM will broadcast live from the fair from 10 a.m. to noon.

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