HUNTINGTON, WV – When the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) became widely known in the 1980s, it was seen as a death sentence. It almost inevitably progressed to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), with its life-threatening infections and cancers.
Thankfully, a lot has changed since then. While there is still no cure for HIV, treatments are now available that can suppress the virus until it is undetectable. Instead of a death sentence, people receiving a diagnosis of HIV do not have to lose a day off their lives with proper treatment. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can even help prevent contracting HIV through a daily medication.
Despite these major medical advancements, Cabell County experienced a spike in new HIV diagnoses in 2019. Its effects continue to be felt with 13 new HIV diagnoses in 2024, tying with Kanawha County for the most in the state.
While HIV can affect anyone, some people face increased risk. Living in a community where many people have HIV means there is more opportunity to be exposed. People who inject drugs account for many of the new diagnoses in our region. Men who have sex with men, Black/African American people, and Hispanic/Latino people all account for a larger percentage of new HIV diagnoses than their percentage of the population, as well.
Unfortunately, many individuals facing increased risk for HIV experience barriers that keep them from even testing, much less receiving treatment. A major challenge is stigma. Negative attitudes and beliefs about people with HIV make our community less healthy when it leads people to avoid HIV testing, prevention, and treatment.
That’s where Ebenezer Medical Outreach, Huntington’s free and charitable clinic, comes in.
From January through April 2025, Ebenezer launched an innovative program to increase testing through a grant from the West Virginia Department of Health. By offering no-cost self-test kits completed with an oral swab and gift cards for reporting results, 259 individuals were tested through Ebenezer’s Community Pharmacy. Nearly half of these individuals had never tested before, including many who faced increased risk. Lifesaving information was provided. Important linkages to care were made. Ebenezer helped build a healthy community.
That’s not all. For National HIV Testing Day, Ebenezer is hosting Huntington Block Party: Fighting HIV Together. This special event on Friday June 27 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the A D Lewis Community Center will bring the community together with live music by local artists, food trucks, and more. Free instant HIV tests will be available, and the first 100 people completing one will receive a $10 gift card. Free giveaways and valuable information will be passed out by the organizations partnering to make the event possible.
Efforts like these are how a healthier Huntington happens. The only way to do it is together.
To learn more about giving to, serving with, or becoming a patient of Ebenezer Medical Outreach, visit https://emohealth.org/.