Cook County Health has launched a new public health campaign aimed at increasing awareness of HIV prevention, testing, and services. 

The campaign is primarily geared towards populations most vulnerable and affected by HIV in Chicagoland. The bright graphics and bold tag “Getting Some?” are intended to be eye-catching, breaking through market noise. The campaign materials educate and empower individuals to take proactive steps in HIV prevention and care, and to raise awareness about HIV services provided by Cook County Health. 

“The goal of this campaign is to engage communities in a conversation about HIV prevention and care, and break down barriers of stigma and misinformation. We want people to know that HIV testing is accessible, confidential, and a critical step in safeguarding their health and the health of others,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle.

Cook County Health has a long history of providing groundbreaking HIV/AIDS care. The first HIV clinic in Chicago opened in Cook County Hospital in 1982, and today CCH’s Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center is the largest HIV care provider in the Midwest.

“We have long been a trusted resource for people living with HIV in our community and must continue to reach those who may not be accessing care. The campaign is designed to make it easier for individuals to take the first step toward a healthier future by showing that we are here to support them, with a welcoming environment and a variety of services,” said Dr. Erik Mikaitis, CEO, Cook County Health.

“Innovative treatments, including PrEP and other prevention strategies, are making it easier than ever to reduce the risk of HIV transmission,” said Alice Cameron, Executive Director of HIV Services, Cook County Health. “Our goal is to ensure that everyone, regardless of background, has the information they need to take control of their health and live without fear of HIV.”

The campaign is funded by a $100,000 grant from the Chicago Department of Public Health through the Ryan White HIV/AIDS program from the U.S. Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA).

Today, April 8, is Ryan White Day, commemorating Ryan White’s death. The HRSA program that bears his name is the largest federal program specifically supporting individuals living with HIV in the United States.

“HIV testing is the first important step in taking charge of your health,” said CDPH Commissioner Dr. Olusimbo ‘Simbo’ Ige, MD, MS, MPH. “Knowing your status opens the door to vital services available across Chicago and Cook County—from HIV treatment and prevention options like PrEP to supportive resources such as housing assistance, primary care, and behavioral health. We’re proud to be part of Cook County’s campaign to raise awareness about HIV testing and helping more people access the care they deserve.”

The bilingual campaign includes a combination of out-of-home (OOH) advertising, digital media, and community engagement efforts, targeting the top five patient zip codes in Chicago. The campaign will reach individuals where they live, work, and socialize, providing both education and an actionable path to seek services at Cook County Health.

For more information on HIV testing and prevention services offered by Cook County Health and the Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center, visit: https://cookcountyhealth.org/services/hiv-aids-program/