World AIDS Day is December 1, 2022
PrEP services can now be accessed directly from MCHD
Bloomington, IL—December 1 each year is recognized as World AIDS Day. World AIDS Day is an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, to show support for people living with HIV, and to commemorate those who have died from an AIDS-related illness.
The first World AIDS Day was observed in 1988. Since then, there have been great advances in HIV prevention and treatment. However, barriers preventing access to these services still exist. This year’s theme, “Putting Ourselves to the Test: Achieving Equity to End HIV,” focuses on efforts to eliminate disparities and inequities that create barriers to testing, prevention, and treatment.
McLean County Health Department (MCHD) offers HIV and other STI testing in a safe environment to anyone seeking services regardless of income, gender identification, sexual orientation, or residency. And now, MCHD is excited to offer PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) services, a once-a-day prescription pill, as part of our HIV prevention services.
The Illinois PrEP Assistance Program is designed for those who are HIV-negative and want to remain HIV-negative. When taken as prescribed, PrEP medications are highly effective in preventing HIV infection during high-risk activities. Anyone seeking PrEP services will begin with a private, confidential appointment with a PrEP specialist at MCHD’s Communicable Disease clinic. Once testing is completed, PrEP prescriptions may then be filled at the client’s pharmacy of choice. Clients return to MCHD quarterly for required testing and ongoing prescriptions.
For a confidential conversation with a MCHD PrEP specialist, call (309) 888-5435 Mon-Fri from 8:00 am – 4:00 pm.
For more HIV/AIDS information: