Xavier from the Men's Resource Center here with some important information about free HIV testing kits. These convenient oral HIV test kits are available at no cost through TakeMeHome.org and can be mailed discreetly to your home address.

Key Details

• Test Type: Oral HIV test

• Result Time: 20 minutes

• Detection Period: Tests for antibodies from birth to 3 months ago

Benefits

• Convenience: Test in the privacy of your own home

• Cost-Effective: Free through TakeMeHome.org (compared to $45.99 at CVS and $40 at Walmart)

• Support Available: Men's Resource Center offers help if needed

This is a great opportunity to take charge of your health with a simple, quick, and free test. The process is straightforward - you order the kit online, it gets mailed directly to your home, and you follow the simple instructions to take the test. Results are ready in about 20 minutes

Support from Men's Resource Center

If you're feeling nervous about taking the test or have questions, don't worry. Our center has a State Certified HIV Test Counselor who can help guide you through the process.We're here to offer support without judgment and can answer any questions you may have.

Why It Matters

Knowing your HIV status is crucial for your health and the health of your loved ones. Early detection can make a huge difference in treatment and overall health. With these free test kits and support available, there's really no reason not to get tested .Remember, whether you choose to use the OraQuick kit at home or seek help from our center, the important thing is to get tested. It's quick, easy, and could make a world of difference. Take care of yourself and get tested today.

HIV in Stanislaus County

In 2020, Stanislaus County reported:

• 28 newly diagnosed HIV cases

• 854 persons living with diagnosed HIV infection

Substance Use and HIV Risk

Substance use significantly increases HIV transmission risk through various mechanisms:

Alcohol Consumption

• Binge drinking impairs judgment

• Can lead to risky sexual behaviors

Illicit Drugs

• Opioids, methamphetamine, and cocaine contribute to increased HIV risk

• Needle sharing

Other Risk Factors

Infidelity can also contribute to HIV risk by:

• Sexual fluidity without protection

• Increasing the number of sexual partners

• Potentially introducing HIV into previously uninfected relationships

Reducing HIV Risk

To reduce HIV risk, it's crucial to:

Practice safe sex. Get regular testing. Seek help for substance use disorders. Adhere to prescribed HIV prevention and treatment medications like PrEP.