Health Department Hosts Free Health Fair in Observance of National Latino AIDS Awareness Day, 10/13

The last day of National Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 to October 15, has been designated as National Latino AIDS Awareness Day (NLAAD).  This year’s theme, Commit to Speak! Comprometete a Hablar!, focuses on raising awareness about HIV/AIDS and promoting HIV testing and prevention information.   In observance of National Latino AIDS Awareness Day, the Lake County Health Department/Community Health Center will host a free health fair on Sunday, October 13, in the Youth Center building located on the campus of Most Blessed Trinity Church, 450 Keller Ave in Waukegan.  The event will begin at 10 a.m. and end at 1 p.m. 

The Health Department and its community partners, including Catholic Charities, Mano-a-Mano, the YWCA, the Pediatric AIDS Chicago Prevention Initiative (PACPI) and Union Latina will provide HIV/AIDS tests as well as information on HIVAIDS’ affect on Hispanic/Latino communities.  Free blood pressure screening and general information related to overall health well being will also be available.     

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Hispanics/Latinos represent 16% of the population but account for 20% of new infections of HIV/AIDS. Anyone who is sexually active is at risk for HIV infection and other sexually transmitted infections, however the HIV epidemic continues to disproportionately affect minority populations, including the Hispanic/Latino community. 

The Health Department’s Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Program offers free HIV counseling and testing and reduced cost STI screening Monday through Friday at the Belvidere Medical Building, Room 1132, 2400 Belvidere Road in Waukegan. For more information, contact the Lake County Health Department STI program at: (847) 377-8450.