World AIDS Day

By Bill Johnson Published Dec 1, 2006 03:05 pm Updated Jan 31, 2009 01:57 pm

San Andreas, CA — Today is World AIDS Day and this year´s theme is accountability.

In particular, the organizers say they are holding political leaders accountable for creating access to care.

In Calaveras County, since 1981, there have been 20 cases of AIDS reported. Nine of those people have died. There are three reported cases of people living with HIV.

A candlelight vigil will be held Friday, December 1, at 6 p.m. in front of the Calaveras Visitors Bureau in downtown Angels Camp. The names of those who have died from AIDS will be read.

Calaveras Health Services Agency Director Jeanne Boyce says free testing is offered at the Public Health Department on Monday and Wednesday afternoons by appointment. Contact Public Health at (209) 754-6460 for more information.

Also, Sierra HOPE in Angels Camp offers case management services and counseling for persons living with HIV and AIDS. Contact Sierra HOPE at (209) 736-6792 for more information.

Written by Vanessa Turner.