JACKSON, Tenn. – The Jackson-Madison County Regional Health Department will join the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in observing World AIDS Day on Dec. 1, 2021.

The community is invited to attend a ceremony recognizing those who have lost their lives to AIDS.

Date: Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2021

Time: 2 p.m.

Location: Jackson-Madison County Regional Health Department (804 North Parkway)

“Our goal is to prevent the spread of disease and educate people who may need more information on how to protect themselves against HIV infection,” STD/HIV Clinical Manager Laura Booker, RN said.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. If HIV is not treated, it can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome).

In 2019, 36,801 people received an HIV diagnosis in the United States, according to CDC. The annual number of new diagnoses decreased 9-percent from 2015 to 2019.

CDC reports an estimated 1.1 million people in the United States had HIV at the end of 2019, the most recent year this information is available. Of those people, about 87% knew they had HIV.

Help prevent the spread of HIV by practicing abstinence, never sharing needles, and using condoms the right way every time you have intercourse.

The Jackson-Madison County Regional Health Department provides HIV education and testing. “It’s important to get tested and know your status,” Disease Intervention Specialist Janice Brown said. “Knowing your status gives you the power to protect yourself and your partner.”

Staff will provide extra HIV/AIDS information and treat bags for health department guests on World AIDS Day.

Call the Jackson-Madison County Regional Health Department at 731-423-3020 to schedule an appointment to get