The AIDS Secretariat within the Ministry of Health is currently in Barbuda, offering vital health services aimed at improving public awareness and prevention of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
From July 6th to 11th, the team is stationed at the Holy Trinity School from 9am to 4pm, where they are offering free and confidential testing for HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis B.
In addition to testing, the Secretariat is also engaging the public with educational sessions and distributing prevention commodities such as condoms and informational materials.
HIV/AIDS Program Manager Delcora Williams emphasized the importance of knowing one’s HIV status, stating: “We’re inviting the entire public to come out and get tested. Knowing your status allows you to live a healthy life, make informed decisions, and ensure your partner is also tested. If you test positive, early diagnosis gives you access to care and treatment before the disease progresses to AIDS.”
Williams noted that while many residents have already accessed the services, the Secretariat hopes more individuals will take the opportunity to get tested and learn about the importance of prevention and early detection.
Residents of Barbuda are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity before the team wraps up its outreach on July 11th.
