New Series: What You Need to Know
At HIV Community Link we are committed to staying up-to-date on the latest and greatest information and trends affecting our work and the communities we serve. One way we do this is through our new series: What You Need to Know. The first four topics in this series are based on the most common and frequently asked questions we receive in-person, online, by phone, email and social media. Get in touch with all your questions – we’re the LINK!
Home Testing for HIV: What You Need to Know
Home testing refers to HIV test kits that can be purchased over the counter and performed in the privacy of one’s home, without the assistance of health care workers or other trained professionals. While HIV home tests are not currently approved for sale in Canada, there are a number of HIV home tests available in other countries and for sale online. Click here for more information about HIV home testing including potential benefits and concerns about this important technology.
New to Alberta: What You Need to Know
Are you a Person Living with HIV (PLWH) who is new to Alberta and looking for information about local HIV related services and supports? Click here to find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions and important information for PLWH who are new to Calgary and Alberta. With programs in three locations across southern Alberta (Calgary, Medicine Hat and Brooks), HIV Community Link connects new Albertans to the information and services they need.
Pre Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): What You Need to Know
PrEP is the use of antiretroviral medication to reduce a person’s risk of becoming HIV positive. One type of PrEP, daily oral Truvada, has been estimated to provide an up to 99% level of protection when used as prescribed. PrEP is a hot topic in HIV research and dialogue in the community: What does the research say? Who is PrEP for? How can I access PrEP? Click here to find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about PrEP.
Treatment as Prevention (TasP): What You Need to Know
According to the World Health Organization, Treatment as Prevention is “a major part of the solution to ending the HIV epidemic”. Treatment as Prevention, also known as TasP, is an HIV prevention strategy based on the fact that the single largest risk factor for HIV transmission is viral load – the amount of circulating virus in body fluids. With effective treatment, the possibility of HIV transmission is significantly reduced and PLWH can experience longevity and wellness. Click here for more information about this game-changing prevention strategy.