On June 27, 2025, communities across the United States came together to observe National HIV Testing Day (NHTD), a pivotal annual event aimed at promoting HIV awareness, encouraging regular testing, and reducing stigma associated with the virus. This year’s theme, “Level Up Your Self-Love: Check Your Status,” emphasized the importance of self-care and proactive health management through HIV testing.
Established in 1995, NHTD serves as a reminder of the critical role that early detection plays in the effective management and prevention of HIV. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 32,000 new HIV infections occur annually in the U.S., with about 13% of those infected unaware of their status. Early diagnosis allows individuals to begin treatment promptly, improving health outcomes and reducing the likelihood of transmission to others.
Nationwide Testing Initiatives
Healthcare organizations and community groups nationwide organized free testing events, educational seminars, and outreach programs to mark the occasion. In Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, the Central Michigan District Health Department (CMDHD) offered free rapid testing for HIV, hepatitis C, and syphilis at a local Walgreens. The event featured confidential, walk-in testing with results available in about 20 minutes, along with educational resources and harm reduction supplies. For those unable to attend, CMDHD provided free at-home HIV self-test kits and continued to offer free STI testing at their Mt. Pleasant office throughout the week.
Similarly, in Charleston, West Virginia, the Charleston Area Medical Center’s (CAMC) Ryan White Program held events at multiple Walgreens locations, providing rapid fingerstick HIV testing and information on prevention and care resources. Christine Teague, CAMC Ryan White Program Director, highlighted the importance of increasing awareness and testing to combat the rise in HIV infections observed in West Virginia since 2018.
Community Engagement and Education
Community organizations played a vital role in promoting NHTD. In Laredo, Texas, Gateway City Pride included National HIV Testing Day in their month-long series of events celebrating LGBTQ Pride Month. The organization emphasized the importance of knowing one’s status and provided resources to encourage testing among community members.
Building Healthy Online Communities (BHOC) launched a digital campaign to increase awareness of and access to free HIV self-testing. The campaign provided social media materials in English and Spanish to promote self-testing options, aiming to reach individuals who may not have easy access to in-person testing services.
Addressing Disparities and Promoting Equity
National HIV Testing Day also served as an opportunity to address disparities in HIV testing, prevention, and care. In Boston, Massachusetts, the Whittier Street Health Center hosted an event offering free, confidential HIV testing and shared information about the latest prevention and treatment options. The center noted that between 2021 and 2023, Boston had the highest rate of new HIV diagnoses in Massachusetts, disproportionately affecting people who inject drugs and those experiencing homelessness.
Efforts to promote equity in HIV care were also evident in the services provided through the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program, which offers essential medical and support services to eligible individuals. Programs like these aim to ensure that all individuals, regardless of socioeconomic status, have access to the care and resources needed to manage their health.
The Importance of Knowing Your Status
Healthcare professionals and community leaders emphasized that getting tested is a simple yet powerful step toward protecting one’s health and the health of others. Anna Reetz, CMDHD community health supervisor, stated, “Getting tested is a simple act that makes a big difference. Whether you test for yourself or for the people you care about, knowing your status helps build a healthier, more informed community.”
With advancements in HIV treatment, individuals diagnosed with HIV can lead long, healthy lives. Early detection through testing is crucial in accessing these treatments promptly. Moreover, individuals who test negative can take advantage of prevention tools such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), condoms, and other sexual health services.
Looking Ahead
As the nation continues to work toward ending the HIV epidemic, National HIV Testing Day remains a critical component in promoting awareness, encouraging testing, and reducing stigma. By fostering community engagement and ensuring equitable access to testing and care, these efforts aim to create a future where everyone knows their status and has the resources to maintain their health.
