Elgin Community College hosts HIV/AIDS testing multiple times per semester in the conference room in Building F, room 121.

On average, testing takes place twice per month during the fall and spring semesters. The next testing will take place on Thursday, December 14 between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. The test itself is conducted as a blood test.

HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus, which is the virus that can lead to the development of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, or AIDS.

More than 50 people each academic year get tested for HIV/AIDS at ECC.

Although the testing is currently only advertised to ECC students, employees at the college may get tested as well.

According to Student Life Coordinator Megan Highland, the testing is conducted through ECC’s partnership with Open Door Health, a healthcare center based out of Elgin and Aurora.

ECC has partnered with Open Door Health to have this testing on campus for over 10 years.

“This on-campus partnership with Open Door allows for more convenient access to free HIV/AIDS testing to those in our community, and it brings awareness to the topic in addition to providing education and support to those seeking resources,” Highland said.

Although there is no testing done at ECC for any other sexually transmitted diseases, Open Door Health conducts those tests at their own facility located at 1655 Larkin Ave. in Elgin.

Highland says there are resources available on campus for anyone who tests positive for HIV or AIDS.

ECC students can schedule free appointments with a wellness professional if they need any mental or emotional support. Appointments can be scheduled online at esars.elgin.edu/eSARS/Wellness/eSARS.asp, by calling 847-214-7390, or by emailing [email protected].

Open Door Health also offers a variety of services such as individual and group counseling, medical care and management and other education and support resources. A list of services can be found on their webpage at odhcil.org.