DAP Health
HIV: Testing, Treatment, and Prevention Save Lives
HIV has been around for more than 40 years. Many people think it’s no longer a problem — but that isn’t true. Thalia Hayden had a frank conversation with DAP Health Medical Director of Specialty Programs, Dr. Jason Halperin,
about why it’s so important for everyone to know their status.
That’s because HIV is both treatable and preventable, and today we have all the tools we need to stop new infections.
You can’t always tell if you have HIV. Many people feel completely healthy at first. The only way to know your status is to get tested.
Testing is fast, easy, and offered for free at DAP Health’s clinics across the Coachella Valley. Everyone should be tested at least once in their lifetime, and sexually active people in groups that are higher-risk should test more often.
Today, HIV treatment is simple. Most people take one pill a day, or receive long-acting injections every one or two months. When someone takes their medication and reaches an undetectable viral load, they cannot pass HIV to their partners. This is called U=U: Undetectable = Untransmittable.
Starting treatment early helps you stay healthy and protects others.
If you’re HIV-negative, you may benefit from PrEP, a prevention medication. PrEP is available as:
A daily pill
An injection every two months
A newer long-acting injection every six months
PrEP is extremely effective when taken as prescribed.
HIV does not discriminate. It affects people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is to know your status and learn your options.
Testing works. Treatment works. Prevention works.
HIV is still present in our community—but we can stop new infections.
To learn more or schedule a test, visit Free HIV Testing - DAP Health
This content sponsored by DAP Health
By: Thalia Hayden
April 1, 2026
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