The NYS Health Department is launching a new campaign aimed at providing free HIV self-testing kits to eligible residents in New York. The initiative targets Latinas, LGBTQ+ individuals, and Black women for the distribution of these kits.
Young gay Latinos are disproportionately affected by new HIV cases, highlighting the need for targeted funding and resources to address this issue. To learn more about eligibility for the HIV self-testing kits, individuals can complete the HIV Self-Test Eligibility Survey.
Eligible individuals will receive a discount code for a free self-test kit, while others will be directed to the AIDs Institute website for additional information and support. Dr. James McDonald, the State Health Commissioner, emphasizes the importance of self-testing as a way for people to take charge of their sexual health, protect themselves and others, and reduce the spread of HIV. He believes that knowing how to prevent and control the transmission of HIV is crucial for individuals to have open conversations with their partners and healthcare providers, ultimately enabling them to manage their sexual health effectively.