The Associated Press
COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina health officials are urging residents to get tested for HIV and AIDS.
Sunday was World AIDS Day, and officials with the Department of Health and Environmental Control say the day is a good reminder to get tested.
DHEC’s Janet Tapp says more than 15,000 people in South Carolina are living with HIV or AIDS.
The theme of this year’s World AIDS Day is “shared responsibility.” Tapp says DHEC is encouraging private sector groups to work together to help identify and care for people living with the disease.
Tapp says early diagnosis can help people get the treatment and services that will help them live longer and prevent transmitting the disease to others.