Public Health Awareness Day

South Health District’s Infectious Disease Office will host their annual Public Health Awareness Day event at the Lowndes County Civic Center on Saturday, June 27. The event offers activities for the entire family; such as free health screenings (i.e., blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes) for adults, and games, face painting and other fun activities for children.

The event was created to educate the community about public health programs and services, as well as other healthcare related organizations in our community. “We hope to encourage people to take an interest in their health and learn more about the vast array of services we offer in public health,” stated Brenda Mims, RN, infectious disease coordinator. “It’s a great way for us to interact with our community in a relaxed, fun setting.”

In recognition of National HIV Testing Day, free confidential HIV testing will be available all day at the event. More than 1.1 million people in the United States are living with HIV, but one in six does not know they are positive. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends all Americans between the ages of 13-64 get tested for HIV. Early diagnosis and treatment improves health, extends life and helps prevent the spread of HIV.

The event will be held Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm at Lowndes County Civic Center on Highway 84 East. For more information call the Infectious Disease Office at 229-245-8711, ext. 241.