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N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – In observance of National HIV Testing Day June 27th, the North Dakota Department of Health is urging people at risk for HIV/Aids to get tested, according to Lindsey VanderBusch with the North Dakota Department of Health.

It is estimated that more than one million people in the US are HIV positive, and approximately 56,300 new infections occur every year. As of December 31st, 2012, 580 cases of HIV/Aids had been reported in North Dakota.

About one-fourth of the people estimated to be HIV positive are believed to be unaware of their infections; as a result, they do not receive medical care that could help them live longer, fuller lives. Without knowing it, they also may be transmitting HIV to others. That is why it is important for people to learn their HIV status by getting tested.

HIV testing is available at test sties throughout the state and results are available in 20 minutes. The test sites are staffed by trained personnel who offer free and confidential HIV testing, counseling and referrals to those at risk.

For more info about HIV testing and other HIV/AIDS services, call the North Dakota Department of Health HIV/AIDS Program hotline at 1-800-70-NDHIV or visit the programs website at www.ndhealth.gov/hiv