It can be years before symptoms of HIV make you feel sick, so many people may not know that they have it. That’s why routine HIV testing is so important.

It is vital that people are made aware of the difficulties surrounding HIV and AIDS, and May 18th each year provides an opportunity to raise awareness in a positive and empathetic way. This day is particularly poignant as it acknowledges all those who have been affected by HIV/AIDS, the staff at organizations that provide care and treatment to sufferers, as well as those who take steps toward finding a vaccine.

National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NNHAAD) is a national mobilization effort designed to encourage American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians across the United States and Territorial Areas to get educated, get tested, get involved in the prevention, and get treated for HIV.

Every year on March 10 — and throughout the month of March — local, state, federal, and national organizations come together to shed light on the impact of HIV and AIDS on women and girls and show support for those at risk of and living with HIV. This year marks the 17th annual observance of National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NWGHAAD).