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| Is HIV/AIDS Taken Seriously in the Virgin Islands |
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For the last 5 years, the Virgin Islands has been ranked #1 in the United States & Territories with the HIGHEST RATE OF HIV. This statistic compares HIV rates between states and territories and when it is compared to every 100,000 people (per capita) the VI has the highest rate.
Considering this number, combined with being in the region (the Caribbean) with the second highest incidence of HIV/AIDS in the World, following Africa, we should be outraged.
HIV/AIDS is a serious and volatile health crisis in the Virgin Islands. With over 890 cases of HIV/AIDS in the territory, a number that continues to grow, we should be alarmed.
The rate of sexually transmitted infections (STI) amongst our youth is very high as well and suggest that our youth may have been exposed to HIV. Since HIV is not tested for duing STI tests, the number of HIV infected youth may be higher than we are aware of in this community.
Additionally, these numbers only reflect those individuals who have been tested and diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. Many people may have it and do not know.
We strongly encourage everyone to GET TESTED and KNOW YOUR STATUS.
Free HIV tests are available at VICARE, 43 Queen Street in Christiansted. We are the two story blue building on the same block as St. Mary's School. Walk in testing is available from 10am -4pm and your results are available in about 20 minutes. We use no needles, no blood, and no pain.
---- Bruce E. Smail, CEO VICARE |
| Posted Date: 2008-03-02 |
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