December 1st has been recognized as World AIDS Day since 1988. It is a day of solidarity for those around the world living with HIV, and a day to join together in fighting HIV and AIDS-related illness. As Wyoming is seeing an over 50% increase in HIV cases this year, Cheyenne Laramie County Public Health (CLCPH) is proud to join that fight.
This World AIDS Day, we celebrate that there are more ways than ever to stop the spread of HIV. One of the best ways to do so is to get tested and know your status. CLCPH offers STI testing, including for HIV. HIV testing can be covered by the KnoWyo voucher program or offered on a sliding payment scale based on your income.
Along with testing, medication is now available that can lower HIV viral load to undetectable for those who have been diagnosed with the disease. When HIV viral load is undetectable, it cannot be transmitted to a partner. Pre-exposure prophylaxis, known commonly as PrEP, has been found effective in preventing HIV infections when taken as directed. Our Family Planning division at CLCPH can refer those interested to PrEP providers. Other methods like abstinence or condom use can also help prevent the spread of HIV.
CLCPH invites everyone to join us in the fight against HIV and AIDS-related illness. We offer STI testing at our office located at 100 Central Ave. in Cheyenne, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. To schedule an appointment or for safe sex information, call 307-633-4000, or visit our website at clcpublichealth.org.