NEWS RELEASE
PORCUPINE HEALTH UNIT
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The Porcupine Health Unit will be providing education and blood testing the week leading up to World AIDS Day on Dec. 1. Between Nov. 25 and Nov. 29, testing for HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) and other blood-borne illnesses will be available in Timmins and Kapuskasing.
“Testing is the only way to know if one has HIV. Testing can be done through a blood draw and/or a rapid finger prick test,” says Patrick Nowak, harm reduction nurse. “Join us and learn more about prevention, testing, and treatment of HIV and other blood-borne illnesses such as Hepatitis C.”
According to Nowak, a northern spin on the symbolic red ribbon will help commemorate World AIDS Day in the area.
“With the help and talent of community volunteers, there will be handmade red scarves placed in various locations in downtown Timmins starting Friday, Nov. 29,” says Nowak. “Each scarf will include an information card that explains the red ribbon and ongoing issues related to HIV/AIDS locally.”
He added that any remaining scarves will be gathered and given to community members in need.
The Porcupine Health Unit is located in Northeastern Ontario, serving the entire Cochrane District and Hornepayne, in Algoma District. The main office is located in Timmins, Ontario, with branch offices in Cochrane, Hearst, Hornepayne, Iroquois Falls, Kapuskasing, Matheson, Moosonee and Smooth Rock Falls.
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