On Thursday, Oct. 15, free HIV Screens, Bone Density, Blood Pressure, Flu Shots, and Hepatitis C testing are being offered in the Port Arthur community through the combined efforts of First Response Urgent Care, Baptist Hospital, Walgreens, and South Side Pharmacy.

These screens will be offered from noon to 7 p.m. at First Response Urgent Care, 3620 FM 365, Ste 400 in Port Arthur. No appointment is necessary and testing will be offered on a first come first served basis.

According to the latest CDC reports, there are 50,000 new cases of HIV in the United States each year. 12,000 of these new cases are reported in those who are between 13 and 24 years old. Currently 70,000 Texans are living with HIV and 1 in 8 citizens do not know that they are HIV positive, and are more likely to transmit HIV to others, or die of AIDS related illnesses.

HIV diagnosis can only be confirmed through laboratory testing of whole blood. Testing is confidential, and those who are HIV and or Hep C positive will be linked to medical care regardless of their ability to pay for services.

First Response Urgent Care, Baptist Hospital, Walgreens, and South Side Pharmacy all have a long standing tradition of offering preventative medical services and long term medical care to our community; and are pleased to collaborate in this very important community service event.