Roadside AIDS test

In North America we have anti-drunk driving Stop Checks, flower sellers and hitchhikers on the side of the road. Here in Lesotho there is an organization that sets up 10’ x 10’ tents at the intersection where you can drop in for an AIDS test. The testers use two different kits (akin to the “Is it blue? We’re having a baby!” tests) to draw blood and provide results on the spot. Which is admirable, as HIV/AIDS education and awareness is crucial to the future of this country. However, I challenge you to picture yourself in a hot vinyl tent surrounded by crazy drivers and the general population. A well-meaning stranger sticks a pin in your finger and moments later you’re wearing a blue rubber bracelet to tell the world YOU know your status. Do they? And so what if you are positive? The testers tell you to test again in three months, as false positives have been known to occur. In a population where 1 in 2 women between the ages of 18 and 24 are HIV-positive, if you’re not, chances are your girlfriend is.