The number of HIV tests performed at health departments statewide has slowed by about 9 percent since 1996. Whereas about 67,000 tests were administered in Michigan health departments in 1996, last year only 61,000 tests were performed.

This decline carries with it the disturbing implication that complacency has once again reared its cocky head.

Last year alone, an estimated 5.4 million people were infected with HIV/AIDS worldwide, according to the website HIV InSite, a global report on AIDS. More than 70 percent of AIDS patients live in sub-Saharan Africa, an area where AIDS is spreading at alarming rates.

However, HIV, the precursor to AIDS, is hardly exclusive to Africa. A full 900,000 infected people live on our continent. The threat of contracting HIV has by no means been minimized.

Though many look to the advances in drug cocktails that prolong the lives of people infected with HIV, the disease still remains very fatal and unchecked in many parts of the world.

The argument that people are just having safer sex is refuted by the fact that HIV infections in Michigan have stayed consistent for the last six years. Also, despite years of education, many people still have misconceptions about HIV and AIDS. While the state can certainly play a role in educating the public about HIV/AIDS and providing services to prevent its spread, it is ultimately individuals" own responsibility to learn protect themselves from the disease.

Students should know that they are also vulnerable to HIV/AIDS. University Health Services estimates that around one half of one percent of University students have contacted AIDS or the HIV virus. In addition to having safer sex, this number can be further reduced by routine testing.

People need to realize that this disease is still out there. Those that are at risk for HIV include intravenous drug users and those who are sexually active.

Remember that even though there are new medications on the market that are effective at postponing the effects of HIV/AIDS, these medications can not cure HIV or AIDS.

If you or someone you know has engaged in behavior that could result in HIV infection, it is imperative that you get tested for piece of mind as well as to prevent any further spread of the disease.