Did you know that 50,000 people in the U.S. get HIV each year? Of the 1.2 million people currently living with HIV in the U.S., 1 in 8 don’t even know they have it. Medicare covers HIV screening for people with Medicare 15-65 years old who ask for the test and pregnant women.

HIV is the virus that can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, or AIDS. Early testing and diagnosis play key roles in reducing the spread of the disease, extending life expectancy, and cutting costs of care. At least 1 in 3 people in the U.S. who test positive for HIV is tested too late to get the full advantage of treatment. However, thanks to better treatments, many people with HIV and AIDS in the U.S. are living longer. Testing is an important first step in getting HIV-infected people the medical care and support they need to improve their health and help them maintain safer behaviors.

Visit CDC.gov to learn more about their Act Against AIDS campaign. To find an HIV test site, visit Gettested.cdc.gov, or text your zip code to “KNOWIT” (566948).

December 1 is World AIDS Day, and with leadership and commitment, we can make an impact. Wear your red ribbon to show your support.