HIV/AIDS is not a thing of the past.
That’s part of the reason why tonight there will be a tree lighting ceremony at the Knox County Health Clinic to remember those who have passed from the disease and support those who still live with it.
This is an annual event that coincides with World AIDS Day.
Judy Britt with the Western Illinois AIDS Task Force says it’s not only the HIV itself, but a weakening of the immune system that exposes the person to a host of other illnesses.
Even more harrowing is that it’s difficult for those with HIV to work and medication can be very expensive.
Knox County Director of Wellness Erin Olson tells Galesburg’s Morning News on WGIL that because there’s a prevailing sense that HIV and AIDS is not as common anymore, the theme for World AIDS Day this year is HIV: Not Retro.
“Because they are taking it back and all of the pictures are from the 80’s, it’s not talked about as much anymore,” Olson says. “So, it’s to show it’s not just gay males or people who are using illegal IV needles. Anyone in our population can be effected by this disease.”
Every Friday the Health Clinic does STD and HIV testing on a walk-in basis.
Also, through the week, they will do rapid tests that take around 30 minutes for results.
The cost is $15 but Olson says the Health Department won’t turn away any one for inability to pay.
