In recognition of National HIV Testing Day, Loretto Hospital is offering free HIV testing and STI (sexually transmitted infection) screenings to uninsured or underinsured residents of Chicago’s Austin neighborhood and surrounding west side communities throughout the month of June. According to the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) HIV/STI Data Report released last October, Austin had the second highest number of new HIV infection diagnoses of all Chicago neighborhoods in 2020. While the total number of Chicagoans diagnosed with HIV or AIDS was the lowest in four decades, non-Hispanic Blacks represented a disproportionate 50 percent of all new cases. The viral suppression rate among Austin residents diagnosed with HIV was 54 percent as opposed to 60 percent citywide. Beyond HIV, the free program will include screening for other STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, all of which, according to the CDPH report, are on the rise, especially among younger Chicagoans. Free HIV testing and STI screening services are available, both by walk-in and appointment, for those who qualify. For more information or to schedule a screening, call at 833-TLH-LOVE or visit https://www.lorettohospital.org.