The Southeast Utah Health Department will be hosting free Hep C and HIV testing clinic on May 26 in East Carbon, then again on May 28 and June 11 in Castle Dale. Castle Country Radio was able to sit down with Opioid Prevention Specialist, Michelle Ward to talk about the testing.

“Hep C is an infection caused by a virus that attacks the liver and leads to inflammation. The CDC recommends all ages 18 and plus to get a one-time testing for Hep C,” said Ward. The virus is spread by contact with contaminated blood, for example sharing needles or from unsterile tattoo equipment.

“HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system and the body natural defense against illnesses,” said Ward. If you think you might have been exposed to HIV, it’s best to speak to a healthcare professional immediately.

The free testing clinics will be held in East Carbon on May 26 from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm at the UMWA Building on Market Street. The Emery County testing will take place on May 28 and June 11 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Health Department on 25 West Main Street in Castle Dale.

The testing itself is quite painless as Ward explains, “Make sure you come with clean hands, we do have some anti-bacterial wipes that you can use. But its just a finger poke, just a blood draw. The OraQuick Rapid HIV Antibody Test detects antibodies for HIV – same for the Hep C. The test collects and processes a sample of blood with a simple finger stick and you get the results in 20 minutes.” While this antibody test is safe and very accurate for HIV, additional testing must be done to confirm a preliminary positive test result.

The Southeast Utah Health Department office in Price offers free testing Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. To set up an appointment call Michelle Ward at (435) 636-1157. Walk-ins are always welcomed.