Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I get tested?
While Strongest Link does not offer counseling and testing services on-site, the agency collaborates with a number of organizations that do. Please see the list of local testing sites. (link to testing sites) However, if you have any questions you would like answered regarding your level or risk or concerns you may have about the testing process, please don^t hesitate to call us.

How can I contract HIV?
HIV is spread by sexual contact with an infected person’s semen of vaginal secretions, through blood by sharing needles among injecting drug users, or, less commonly (and now very rarely in countries where blood is screened for HIV antibodies), through transfusions. Babies born to HIV-infected women may become infected before or during birth, or through breast-feeding after birth. However, with the advances in prenatal care and medications, the transmission rate from mother to child during the birthing process has been greatly reduced with regular prenatal care and conversations with your doctor.

You cannot contract HIV through sweat, saliva, or tears. Therefore, you cannot become infected with HIV by sharing silverware, shaking hands, swimming with or hugging someone who is HIV positive. There have also been no known cases of reported HIV infection from kissing.

HIV needs an entry site into the body, whether through a mucus membrane (because the blood vessels are very close to the top of the skin), an open sore, or a small cut in the mouth. The virus also cannot live long outside the body, which is why there is also no risk of transmission from mosquitoes or from sharing a toilet seat.

Is it ok to have unprotected sex with my partner if they are also HIV positive?
While this is a practice that reduces the risk of spreading the virus, there is still a chance that your partner has a different strain of the virus than you do. Because of this, there is a risk of re-infection with another strain of HIV, one that may be drug-resistant. If you have any questions on how to best protect yourself and your partner and reducing your risk of contracting HIV, please give us a call.

How do I/family member/friend become a client of Strongest Link?
Just call! Someone will take down your pertinent information over the phone and a case manager will contact you for an initial intake meeting, either at our offices or at a more convenient location for you.

What towns does Strongest Link serve? What happens if I don’t live there?
Strongest Link serves Essex County, which includes the following communities: Lynn, Swampscott, Beverly, Peabody, Salem, Danvers, Topsfield, Middleton, Rowley, Gloucester, Rockport, Ipswich, Amesbury, Salisbury, Hamilton, Wenham, Manchester, Newbury, Newburyport, Essex, Georgetown, and Haverhill.

We will never deny anyone in need of services. However, we may refer you to an agency that is closer to your area that provides similar services. If you choose to receive services from Strongest Link, we will do our best to assist you in any way possible. For any other questions, please call us. Our staff will be happy to answer any concern you may have and provide you with accurate information.