One of the top priorities for the Fulton County Board of Health is preventing HIV, as Atlanta remains one of the hardest-hit cities in the fight against the virus. According to a 2024 study, metro Atlanta had the third-highest rate of new HIV diagnoses in the U.S. in 2020 and 2021, with 25.4 new cases per 100,000 people, and 72% of those diagnosed were Black. Fulton County carries the highest concentration of both prevalence and new cases in the metro area, driven largely by healthcare gaps, resource disparities, and social stigma.
Throughout the state of Georgia, and in parts of metro Atlanta, access to affordable heathcare and insurance remains limited. Testing, treatment, and preventative care like PrEP are also unevenly available, particularly in high-risk neighborhoods and among vulnerable populations. Social stigma and embarrassment are also significant barriers, often discouraging people from seeking regular testing, treatment, and early intervention.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) attacks the body’s immune system, specifically white blood cells. If left untreated, it destroys these cells and can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). HIV is spread by coming into contact with body fluids such as blood, semen, rectal or vaginal secretions, and breast milk of an infected person.
The Fulton County Board of Health provides HIV prevention services which include:
- HIV Testing (free or reduced cost)
- Free condoms and demonstrations on proper use
- Referrals to Rapid Entry
- HIV care (within 72 hours of testing positive)
- Assessment and access to our PrEP clinic
- Community education and screenings
- Mobile clinic services
For more information on our HIV testing and prevention services, click here: HIV Testing and Prevention – Fulton County Board of Health
For more information on our HIV treatment services/Ryan White program, click here: HIV Treatment Services – Ryan White Program – Fulton County Board of Health
For more information about HIV, click here: About HIV | HIV | CDC