What is the role of rapid testing for US-Mexico border and migrant populations?
Until recently, HIV rates in Mexico and among Mexican migrants in California appeared to be stable and relatively low; however, recent studies show that HIV may be expanding more aggressively in some populations, especially in border communities.1 One study of 374 young Latino men who have sex with men (MSM) in the San Diego/Tijuana region found high rates of HIV: 19% in Tijuana and 35% in San Diego.2 Another study of 1,068 pregnant women in labor in Tijuana found a 1.12% HIV rate.3 Yet a study of 1,041 Mexican migrants at border crossing locations in Tijuana found a 0% HIV rate.4 Getting tested for HIV is key to preventing the spread of HIV. Persons who test HIV+ can access counseling, prevention education, support services and medical care to stay healthy and not progress to AIDS. HIV- persons can access counseling and education to remain HIV-. It is estimated that 31% of all HIV+ persons in the US do not know they’re infected.5 Border and migrant populations may be at great risk for
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