PROTECT YOURSELF
Not having sex is the best way to protect yourself form contracting a STD (sexually transmitted disease).
Having sex with only one uninfected partner who only has sex with you is also safe.
Talk to your partner about past sex partners.
Use a latex condom. Condoms will help protect you from most STD’s.
Injection drug users should not share needles. There are syringe exchanges in most areas where you can obtain clean needles.
Free Testing – in English Katie (847) 742-3545 x262 in Spanish Carlos (847) 293-3450
Information Video – My Best Friend is HIV Positive
HIV Continues to be a threat to the Latino/Hispanic Community
Latinos represent approximately 17% of the U.S. population, but account for an estimated 21% of people living with HIV and approximately 24% of all persons newly diagnosed with HIV. After years of increases, diagnoses stabilized among young (aged 13-24) African American and white gay and bisexual men. Diagnoses increased 14% among young Hispanic/Latino gay and bisexual men. The stigma associated with HIV and homosexuality and the social and economic realities of some Latino’s lives, including poverty, fear of deportation, and lack of access to health care, can increase HIV risk. Fear of disclosing sensitive information such as risk behavior or sexual orientation may prevent Latinos from getting tested for HIV and seeking treatment and prevention services. As a result, too many Latinos lack critical information about how to prevent infection. HIV/AIDS is no longer a death sentence and can be treated so that you can live a long life. This cannot happen though, if you don’t know you have the virus. Renz Center offers free HIV testing to high risk Latino persons and offers a HIV positive support group for Latino gay and bisexual men. Our bilingual and bicultural staff have been offering services to the Latino population for over 20 years. For a free screening or to set up an appointment for testing, call: Marcos Bostho – 847-293-7283 Carlos Chavez – 847-293-3450
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