OASIS offers support, testing, and information about HIV, STI’s, and treatment options like PrEP, a once daily pill that protects against HIV.
Thirty-three years ago Okaloosa AIDS Support Informational Services, OASIS, opened its doors to provide Okaloosa County communities with STI information, HIV testing, and condoms, with a goal to prevent the spread of HIV and AIDS, and support community members currently living with these diagnoses. As a partner with Crestview Resource and Community Development Center, CRC, representatives from OASIS are available every 4th Wednesday of the month from 10:00am to 1:00pm to provide free HIV testing and counseling to our community members.
HIV and STI testing are quick, usually painless, and performed in a private environment by compassionate and understanding staff. Some tests require a blood draw, while others only require saliva. Staff bring testing materials, educational pamphlets and literature, free condoms, and other materials necessary for providing the highest quality service and support to those in need of it. Privacy and dignity are of the utmost importance. The OASIS staff are experienced, informed, and ready to support you regardless of where you are on your STI journey.
Here are a few frequently asked questions you may have about HIV:
- What is HIV? HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. It weakens a person’s immune system by destroying important cells that fight disease and infection. No effective cure exists for HIV. But with proper medical care, HIV can be controlled. Some groups of people in the United States are more likely to get HIV than others because of many factors, including their sex partners, their risk behaviors, and where they live. This section will give you basic information about HIV, such as how it’s transmitted, how you can prevent it, and how to get tested for HIV.
- How does HIV affect the body? HIV is a virus spread through certain body fluids that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the CD4 cells, often called T cells. Over time, HIV can destroy so many of these cells that the body can’t fight off infections and disease. These special cells help the immune system fight off infections. Untreated, HIV reduces the number of CD4 cells (T cells) in the body. This damage to the immune system makes it harder and harder for the body to fight off infections and some other diseases. Opportunistic infections or cancers take advantage of a very weak immune system and signal that the person has AIDS. Learn more about the stages of HIV and how to know whether you’re infected.
- Can I get HIV by injecting drugs? Yes. Your risk of getting HIV is very high if you use needles or works (such as cookers, cotton, or water) after someone with HIV has used them. People who inject drugs, hormones, steroids, or silicone can get HIV by sharing needles or syringes and other injection equipment. The needles and equipment may have someone else’s blood in them, and blood can transmit HIV. Likewise, you’re at risk for getting hepatitis B and C if you share needles and works because these infections are also transmitted through blood. Another reason people who inject drugs can get HIV (and other sexually transmitted diseases) is that when people are high, they’re more likely to have risky sex. Stopping injection and other drug use can lower your chances of getting HIV a lot. You may need help to stop or cut down using drugs, but many resources are available.
For more information about HIV and STI’s, visit the OASIS website or come visit OASIS at the CRC every 4th Wednesday of the month to take control of your sexual health and protect yourself and your community against HIV and STI’s.