The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks cells that help the body fight infection, making a person more vulnerable to other infections and diseases. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) HIV Prevention Program works to spread awareness, reduce stigma, and share resources with communities across Nebraska.
“HIV infection and prevention has broad-reaching public health impacts that could affect anyone,” said Dr. Timothy Tesmer, Chief Medical Officer for DHHS. “Our HIV Prevention Program continues to develop a statewide framework to increase HIV prevention education, testing, and connections to care.”
With support from the Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant, the HIV Prevention Program created a statewide prevention campaign aimed at increasing access to HIV education and testing. The multi-avenue marketing approach includes billboards (Omaha, Lincoln, Kearney, Norfolk, North Platte, and Grand Island), dating apps, and digital media platforms.
While there is no cure for HIV, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a medicine that effectively reduces the chance of getting HIV, when taken as prescribed. To find a testing location, PrEP, and resources near you, visit https://gettestednebraska.org/.
To learn more about the DHHS HIV Prevention Program, visit https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/HIV-Prevention.aspx.