Rapid antibody testing for both HIV and hepatitis C is available at the Thurston County Drug User Health Program (previously known as the Syringe Services Program). The tests involve getting a small blood sample using a fingerstick. Results for each test take 20 minutes. For those who have a positive test result, we can help them connect to health care for confirmatory testing or treatment.

Drug User Health Programs can play a role in preventing HIV, hepatitis C, and other health concerns among people who use drugs.

Early detection of and treatment of HIV can increase the quality of life for a person living with HIV and can help to prevent the spread of the virus. Although there is no cure for HIV, people living with HIV who achieve and maintain an undetectable viral load by taking medications to treat HIV as prescribed cannot sexually transmit the virus to others.

Hepatitis C can be cured in more than 90% of the people who have it, and it can be cured in as little as 8-12 weeks. Treating hepatitis C can increase the quality of life for a person by eliminating the virus that is damaging the liver and can help prevent the spread of the virus to others.

For more information about HIV testing, hepatitis C testing, and care navigation services, call 360-463-2556.