Governor inks World AIDS Day proclamation

Gov. Benigno R. Fitial signed yesterday a proclamation declaring December 2008 as World AIDS Awareness Month in a simple ceremony at his office on Capital Hill.

The proclamation is in recognition of the need for the continued commitment of all governments and policy makers worldwide to combat HIV and AIDS.

This year’s World AIDS Campaign theme is, “Stop AIDS. Keep the Promise–Lead, Empower, Deliver.”

The Governor said this is a time to expand and strengthen the effort to stop the spread of dreaded disease.

“HIV and AIDS continue to be a health concern here in the CNMI with an increase in the number of HIV and AIDS cases in both indigenous and non-indigenous populations,” the proclamation stated.

The Governor said the awareness campaign provides an opportunity to renew the fight against HIV and AIDS, and bring to light continued efforts in the delivery of HIV prevention programs, services, and care.

He said the fight against HIV and AIDS will be won by effective HIV infection prevention and scientific research to find a cure, the people of the CNMI are encouraged to protect themselves, get tested, stay aware and educated about the risks of HIV transmission.

World AIDS Day was on Monday, Dec. 1.

Meanwhile, the Department of Public Health is reminding everyone the importance of having a check-up to help prevent spread of the dreaded disease.

Rapid HIV testing is now available free of charge in Family Planning clinics on Saipan, Tinian and Rota.

AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is a disease a person gets when HIV destroys the body’s immune system. HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) kills the cells that help the body fight off infection and disease.

The test is done on the lining of the mouth so no blood draw is needed.

The test takes 20 minutes, so results are available that same visit.

Aside from HIV testing, the program also provides education services onsite at its Family Planning funded clinics throughout the CNMI.

Testing is currently available at the Southern Community Wellness Center (664-4850); CHC Women’s Clinic (234-8950); and the Adolescent Health Center at Marianas High School (237-3283); all three clinics are located here on Saipan.

The contact number at the Tinian Health Center is 433-9263 while the Rota Health Center is 532-9461.