This year to commemorate World AIDS Day, a community-wide free HIV testing event will be held Wednesday at The Out Center office, located at 132 Water St. downtown Benton Harbor from 1 to 6 p.m.

This event is co- sponsored by CARES, the Berrien County Health Department and The Out Center. Everyone is encouraged to get tested or to affirm their support for the prevention of HIV in communities and for those already affected.  his year’s event will feature the HIV Rapid Test, which will provide results on-the-spot within 15 minutes.

The goal of this event will be to inform people that HIV/AIDS is still a dangerous reality for everyone, and allow people to be become informed of their HIV status. It’s an opportunity to get tested and know your status. Through education, information and frank discussions, CARES, the health department and The Out Center hope to update and continue to enlighten and re-elevate the community’s awareness of the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

Dec. 1 is recognized globally as World AIDS Day. HIV/AIDS continues to wreak havoc on lives in epidemic proportions not only universally but also within the community of Berrien County. According to the Michigan Department of Community Health, there are approximately 290 people in Berrien County who are infected with HIV/AIDS, and Berrien has the third highest prevalence rate of HIV in Michigan.

What is World AIDS Day?

World AIDS Day originated at the 1988 World Summit of Ministers of Health Programs for AIDS Prevention. Since then, governments, international organizations, and charities around the world participate. This day is a special day for everyone who is infected and affected by HIV/AIDS. World AIDS Day is important in reminding people that HIV has not gone away; there is still much work that needs to be done to fight this battle.

The red ribbon has been the international symbol for AIDS Awareness since 1991. This ribbon was created as a symbol of support for the growing number of people living with HIV or AIDS in the United States.

What is HIV/AIDS?

HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. HIV is an infection that can only be transmitted between humans. This virus attacks the immune system, making the body weak against infections and other viruses. The immune system is what the body uses as a defense to protect humans from illnesses. When someone has the HIV virus, it will stay with them, and there is no cure available.

AIDS stands for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. AIDS is a disease that HIV can turn into. When a person has AIDS they can get other illnesses called opportunistic infections. These infections quickly deplete the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off other illnesses and infections; when this happens a person can die.

Free testing for HIV is also available during the rest of the year at CARES (927-2437) and at the health department (927-5658). Call for testing days and times at either site.

For more information, visit www.bchdmi.org or www.caresswm.org.