Ellison Participates in National HIV Testing Day

Press Release

Congressman Keith Ellison (D-Minneapolis) joined Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-California) on National HIV Testing Day to renew his commitment to ending the stigma of being tested for HIV.

"Today I received a rapid mouth swab HIV test in Washington where I was found to be negative. I wanted to show the importance of being tested on a regular basis, it's the only way you can know your status" Ellison said.

At the moment 1 in 5 people living with HIV do not know they are infected with HIV. As HIV rates in the United States climb it is increasingly important for individuals to be tested regularly.

"The stigma of being tested for HIV is still present in many communities. By renewing my commitment, I hope to show those in my district and around the country that this simple test could possibly stop the transition of HIV to another person" Ellison added.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), a staggering 56,300 Americans are newly infected with HIV each year. HIV can only be spread through breast milk, unprotected sex, blood transmission, and needle sharing. New medical technology enables doctors to stop the transmission of HIV from mother to child.

Rep. Ellison is a consistent advocate for HIV awareness and today, by renewing his support, he hopes to strengthen the fight against this preventable disease.

Source