DPH Offers Free STD, HIV Testing in Observance of PrEP Awareness Week
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Sept. 21, 2026
COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) will observe its seventh annual PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) Awareness Week by offering educational materials and free HIV testing, including visits to college campuses.
DPH’s statewide PrEP Awareness Week initiative aims to increase awareness among providers and the community regarding PrEP, a pill or injection that can help significantly decrease HIV infection if someone is exposed to the virus.
As part of PrEP Awareness Week, free and confidential sexually transmitted disease (STD) and HIV testing will be offered Tuesday, Sept. 29 at most local health departments. To make an appointment, call 1-855-472-3432 or schedule online using Web Chat.
DPH is also collaborating with several local community-based organizations to provide free and confidential HIV testing, PrEP counseling and resources, and PrEP gear on college campuses during the month of September.
“PrEP Awareness Week aims to increase awareness about HIV testing and prevention,” said Ali Mansary, director of DPH’s STD, HIV, and Viral Hepatitis Section. “We encourage South Carolinians to take advantage of our free testing events, as knowing your status is the first step toward protecting your health and preventing HIV.”
For more information about additional free testing sites and college testing locations, visit dph.sc.gov/PrEPweek.
For more information about STDs and locations that provide screenings throughout the year, call DPH’s HIV/STD Hotline at 1-800-322-AIDS (1-800-322-2437) or visit DPH’s website at dph.sc.gov/std.
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DPH Offers Free STD, HIV Testing in Observance of PrEP Awareness Week
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