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Washington DC has the highest rate of HIV infection in the country, with Maryland close behind with the third highest rate. In DC it is estimated that every 1 in 20 people have the virus. In the country, half of all new infections are among youth thirteen to twenty-four years old.
Due to the disproportionate rates of infection among youth, we are working to increase awareness and healthy behavior change. There are many avenues in which we strive to accomplish this. Through youth centered activities such as community events, presentations, workshops and street outreach. Street outreach is provided at bars, clubs, and other social activities where LGBTQ youth are most likely to be. For sexually active youth, we encourage youth to know their HIV status and to reduce their risk of HIV and STD infection by practicing safer sex.
If you would like to get an HIV test, you can come to the SMYAL Youth Center on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Friday nights from 4:00 to 8:00 pm and ask for
Leandrea Gilliam, or you can call to make an appointment in advance by contacting:
Leandrea Gilliam
202.546.5940 ext. 116
leandrea.gilliam@smyal.org
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