Lunch bags, frisbees and key chains were not the only items that the De Anza College Health Services were giving out for free on April 26, Club Day. Health workers also provided free HIV tests.
Free material at the booth included, STD pamphlets, condoms, condom cases and lubricant. Even the food guide pyramid had been replaced by “A Great Plate for Adults” showing daily recommended portions for each type of food. Not only that, smoking awareness items like a “Cost of Smoking Calculators,” mints and tobacco-free key chains were available.
“We have free patches and gum for smokers to quit smoking,” said Sarah Coote, a De Anza clinic nurse.
Coote also mentioned the free HIV testing and gestured toward the white bus in the middle of the quad. A guy in a bright green polo, Paul, administered the test, and explained to me how it all worked.
“What we have is an HIV antibody test. The idea is that if you were exposed to the virus, your body would produce antibodies,” he said. “If we detect the antibodies we know you were exposed. The body produces enough antibodies in a two to three month perioid.”
He gave me a one-ended cotton swab and I circled it between my gums and my lips a couple times. I returned the saliva-ridden stick and was was given 20 minutes to wander other club day tables until I received my results.
Though a time-consuming procedure, it’s one I would recommend to anyone.
De Anza College Health Services gives out condoms, minor first-aid and even personal counseling at its office on the lower level of the Hinson Campus Center. Free pregnancy tests are available by appointment.
Students can also make appointments for office visits, physical exams and well-woman exams, but payment is required.
Hinson
Campus Center
Lower Level
HOURS
Mon- Thur.- 8 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Friday – 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Office: 408-864-8732
Email:
www.deanza.edu/healthservices
Health Service Events
Blood Drive-June 6
8:30 a.m.-7:45 p.m.
Relationships – May 15
Therapy – May 29
Anxiety – June 12
Depression – June 19
