Free HIV testing offered in Kennewick for people at high risk of contracting the virus

The Benton Franklin Health District is offering fee rapid tests for HIV, the virus that can lead to AIDS.

It will make appointments for 100 residents of Benton and Franklin counties who are at high risk of being infected with HIV.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that high risk behavior includes having more than one sexual partner, sharing any needles or syringes, or having sex with someone who is diagnosed with HIV or has had another sexually transmitted disease.

The Washington state Department of Health estimates that more than 14,000 people in the state are living with HIV. However, 14% of those people don’t know they have been infected.

The CDC recommends everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once, or more frequently depending on risk.

Tri-Cities area residents at high risk of HIV infection could call the health district at 509-460-4200 starting Monday, June 27, which is National HIV Testing Day, to make an appointment.

Testing appointments at the district clinic office at 7102 W. Okanogan Place, Kennewick, will take 30 minutes.

Participants will fill out a questionnaire and receive information on a prescription drug that can help prevent HIV.

A finger stick will be done, with results available in one minute. If the test is positive, blood will be drawn to be sent to a laboratory for confirmation.

This story was originally published June 27, 2022 at 9:04 AM.