The State of New Hampshire funded twenty-one walk-in STD/HIV clinic sites until July 1, 2011. At that time, the general funds supporting many of these services were cut. Some sites were able to remain open, offering limited services. These sites were located throughout the state and played an integral role as they offered a variety of HIV, STD and hepatitis services including testing, STD treatment, risk reduction education, counseling and referrals.
In addition, over the past 5 years the NH DPHS HIV Prevention Grant funded targeted testing in the amount of $10,000 per year to Child & Family Services. Over the 5-year period, no positives were found.
The NH DPHS Surveillance program reported that in 2010, in the age category of 0-24; 8 HIV cases and 2 AIDS cases were identified. As the report on the NH DHHS website shows, the incidence for STD’s, (Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis) are much higher; comparing the same age category; 1,914 cases were identified.
This shows there are risk behaviors; fortunately, the population is not saturated with HIV. School and community health linkages are more important than ever. Trying to reach those at disproportionate risk in schools, NHDE encourage efforts to support the health of young MSM. There are a few GSA and similar clubs in schools; there is a tiny PFLAG group in the corner of the state. Community support for specific anti-bullying gender orientation language in school policies is often lacking. It is challenging to teach scientifically accurate comprehensive sexuality education, addressing the needs of young MSM, in communities with indifference at best, and possible hostility. We have found one of the best ways to engender a passion for inclusive education is to include student panels in our workshops, asking students to share their experiences of support so educators can pick up some tips to show support for their students.
NH statistics: www.dhhs.nh.gov/dphs/bchs/std/publications.htm
Mary Bubnis
mary.bubnis@doe.nh.us
www.education.nh.gov/
No comments:
Post a Comment