Health Services co-sponsoring free HIV screenings

In commemoration of World AIDS Day this weekend, AIDS Project Rhode Island will conduct free HIV screenings for members of the Salve Regina community from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 29 in Health Services, located in the Miley Hall garden level.

Screenings involve taking a painless swab from the inside of the cheek. Confidential results are available in 15-20 minutes.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, just 35 percent of 18 to 24 year olds have been tested for HIV. About 50,000 people are infected with HIV each year, and one in four is 13 to 24 years old. About 12,000 youth were infected with HIV in 2010.

Thursday’s screening is co-sponsored by the University’s Brazilian nursing students and Face AIDS, a student organization fighting HIV/AIDS in Africa by raising awareness about AIDS’ direct and indirect effects on those suffering from the disease, their families and the overall community.

Celebrated each year on Dec. 1, World AIDS Day is an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, show their support for people living with HIV and to commemorate people who have died.

Flu shots will also be available during Thursday’s screening. Those who are interested should bring their insurance card.