Free Testing for Bloodborne Pathogens in Butler County
May 27, 2022 at 7:10 a.m.
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Updated June 10, 2022 at 12:52 p.m.
HIV or Human Immunodeficiency Virus is a blood borne virus that attacks an individual’s immune system. The immune system is a person’s defense against harmful pathogens. When the immune system is depleted, this can cause harmful effects of an individual’s overall health and well-being. Due to the spread of this disease, it is important for the community to know how they can identify symptoms, get tested, and next steps following the diagnosis of an HIV infection.
Butler County’s instances of HIV cases and diagnosis has steadily increased over the last few years.
Neighboring counties such as Hamilton County, located south of Butler make up for 15% of Ohio’s new HIV cases according to the Ohio Department of Health’s HIV in Ohio report. Because of this consistent increase in cases throughout Ohio and in Butler County, it is vital for the community to know there are available resources out there in which they can utilize and keep themselves and others safe.
Health Officials warn of rising Bloodborne Pathogens numbers.
On the second and fourth Friday of every month starting at 11:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m. free testing for HIV and Hepatitis C is available at Butler County General Health District 301 S. Third Street, Hamilton, OH 45011. This is sponsored by the Caracole Prevention Program through a mobile testing van. Other locations in Butler County include Walgreens 562 Main Street, Hamilton, OH 45013 on the third Wednesday of each month from 2:00 PM through 5:00 PM.
Butler county also has available a Syringe Services Program that helps educate the public on HIV and Hepatitis. They provide healthcare referrals and clean needles to help stop in the spread of infection. Services are offered in Fairfield and Middletown. The Fairfield location is 3000 Mack Rd. Fairfield, OH 45014 from 2 p.m. through 4 p.m. located in the back parking lot. The Middletown location is 4464 S.Dixie Highway Middletown, OH 45005 from 10:00 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. located on the back of the property near fencing.