Lincoln County Health Department

HIV / AIDS

What is it? 

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the virus that causes AIDS.  Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a life threatening illness that destroys the immune system over time. HIV is spread through blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk.  Having sex or sharing needles with someone who is positive can put you at risk.  

Getting tested

Do you have concerns that you may have put yourself at risk to get this virus?  You can be tested at the Lincoln County Health Department.  Your test can be anonymous or confidential.  If you want your test to be anonymous, you may sign a made up name on the consent form.  A confidential test means that you sign your real name when you get tested.  Either way, your results are kept strictly confidential.  Washington state law requires that you receive counseling before the test and at the time that you get the results.  Getting the results usually takes about a week.  Don’t worry or wonder.  Finding out your status can give you peace of mind or it can help you protect others.  The sooner you find out, the sooner you can get medical treatment if you are positive.  It can make all the difference in the length and quality of your life.  Call for an appointment today.  You don’t need to tell anyone why you are calling---just ask to speak to a nurse.

Prevention

Free condoms are available at the Lincoln County Health Department.  You don’t even need to ask for them.  They are available in the restrooms. 

For more information call or email Jolene Erickson, RN at 509-725-1001 or jerickson@co.lincoln.wa.us

Washington State HIV/AIDS Hotline number 1-800-272-2437

Click here for more information from DOH

Click here for more information from the CDC