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National HIV Testing Day

Take charge of your health today! National HIV Testing Day is the perfect time to get tested and start your journey towards a healthier future.

Saturday

June 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEJune 27

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYPublic Health

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Let's get informed and take action on National HIV Testing Day on June 27! This day was first started in 1995 to promote awareness of the importance of regular testing for HIV, which is a virus that can lead to AIDS. Now more than ever, it is important for everyone to know their status so they can seek treatment if needed and protect themselves from further transmission. Regular testing helps us stay safe and healthy.

TIMELINE

National HIV Testing Day Timeline

First AIDS Cases Reported

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) first reported on AIDS-related illness, leading to increased public awareness about the virus over the coming years.

First HIV Blood Test

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) licensed the first blood test to detect HIV antibodies, allowing for much-needed diagnosis and surveillance of the epidemic.

Treatment Effectiveness Revealed

A landmark study shows that the drug AZT could significantly reduce the risk of mother-to-child HIV transmission, highlighting the importance of testing for treatment plans.

National HIV Testing Day Established

National HIV Testing Day is inaugurated to promote the importance of regular testing in order to identify those infected and control the spread of HIV.

Rapid HIV Testing Approved

The FDA approves an oral rapid HIV test, making it even easier for people to get tested and learn their results within minutes.

Treatment as Prevention

Research confirms that early antiretroviral therapy (ART) can help prevent transmission of HIV, further emphasizing the importance of early and regular testing.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National HIV Testing Day

Participate in an HIV testing event

Most cities or states will have organized events to help people get tested. Look up local events near you and participate in a testing event to help spread awareness.

CREATE

Create your own HIV testing event

If there isn’t an event near you, gather friends, family, or members of your community and create your own HIV testing event. You can raise funds for HIV prevention and treatment programs and provide resources on how to stay safe.

EDUCATE

Educate yourself about HIV

Read articles, watch videos, and listen to podcasts about HIV and AIDS. There are plenty of resources online to learn more about the symptoms, treatments, and prevention methods associated with this virus.

DONATE

Donate to organizations that support HIV prevention

Organizations like World Health Organization (WHO) have programs that focus on raising awareness, providing medical assistance, and helping those affected by the virus. Consider donating money or time to help these programs succeed.

TALK

Talk to your doctor about getting tested

Getting tested is one of the most important ways to protect yourself and others from HIV/AIDS. Talk to your doctor about getting tested for HIV/AIDS on National HIV Testing Day.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National HIV Testing Day is Important

It helps reduce stigma

Unfortunately, there is still a great deal of stigma associated with HIV which prevents many from getting tested out of fear of judgment or discrimination. National HIV Testing Day provides a platform for open discussion and education about the virus which can help reduce this stigma.

Knowledge is power

Getting tested for HIV is an essential step in knowing your status and getting the medical care and support you need. Knowing your status allows people to make informed decisions about their healthcare and lifestyle, so it's important to get tested if you have had unprotected sex with a new partner or have shared needles.

It can save lives

Early diagnosis and treatment of HIV is key to slowing the spread of the virus and preventing transmission to others. By getting tested regularly, you can reduce the risk of passing on HIV as well as reduce the risk of long term complications associated with the virus.

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