DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF News) – Dallas County Health and Human Services is offering North Texans free HIV tests today in recognition of World AIDS Day.
DCHHS Director Zac Thompson said because people are living longer with HIV, many don’t see AIDS as a death sentence and have become too cavalier about the disease.
“People are having unprotected sex. In the frequency of unprotected sex, new infection rates are increasing among the millennial population and those over 50 who are recently back in the dating game who may not know that HIV infections are increasing in the United States and here in North Texas,” said Thompson.
He said another contributing factor to the spike in infection rates amongst millennials is a more relaxed attitude about casual sex.
“We’re seeing more and more of the millennials, the younger people and our kids getting involved in chat rooms that are encouraging sexual activity. So, we really have to focus on monitoring those and shutting them down,” said Thompson.
He said education about HIV/AIDS prevention in schools need to be more direct to drive home the severity of the disease to young people.
“Your talking about your health. In terms of being able to move forward with your life you need to protect yourself from HIV and AIDS. So, while it’s not a death sentence, for some individuals it can be a very traumatic situation. The message is definitely don’t have unprotected sex, have a conversation with your parents, with your counselor or someone you trust to help you move through this process of understanding the importance of getting tested safe sex practices,” said Thompson.
The tests are being given at the Consulate of Mexico at 1210 River Bend Drive until 2:00 p.m.
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