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Free HIV testing now available in Richmond

Posted at 2:46 PM, Jun 24, 2014
and last updated 2014-06-24 18:51:46-04

RICHMOND, Va.- The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and Walgreens are offering free, rapid HIV testing at select Walgreens locations around Virginia. Click here to find a Walgreens offering HIV testing near you.

"There are many reasons people do not get screened for HIV, or do not return to find out the results of their screenings," State Health Commissioner Marissa J. Levine, said in a statement. "Together with Walgreens, we want to reduce those reasons by making it convenient for people to get screened, get results within minutes and get access to care if necessary."

One in six people who have HIV don't even know they are HIV positive, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

"Working with VDH, we are pleased to help empower customers to know their status and take control of their health. Our specially-trained pharmacists can provide a safe, confidential environment for testing and ongoing health and wellness guidance for people living with HIV," Glen Pietrandoni, Walgreens senior director of virology, said.