The testing will be available at all county health department locations, along with sister outreach facilities. For HIV testing locations and other activities, visit www.aidsinfoutah.net or call 801-538-6096.

According to recent cumulative statistics released by the Utah Department of Health, Latinos account for 17 percent of those living with HIV and AIDS in Utah. During 2007, 20 percent of reported HIV and AIDS cases were among Latinos, who make up 11.2 percent of Utah's population.

The awareness day coincides with Binational Health Week, an effort sponsored by the Mexican Consulate in Utah to improve the health of underserved immigrants.

“It is very important for us to reach out to the Latino community and educate them about the importance of getting tested,” said Edwin Espinel with the state Bureau of Communicable Disease Control.

He is also a member of the Latino advisory council for the National Alliance of State and Territorial AIDS Directors (NASTAD). “The best way to prevent the spread of HIV transmission is education and early detection,” he added.