Expressing support for the designation of September 9 as "National African Immigrant and Refugee HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis Awareness Day" or "NAIRHHA Day".

United States119th CongressHRES-693House of Representatives
Updated: Sep 10, 2025

Summary

This resolution highlights the significant health disparities faced by African immigrant and refugee communities in the United States, noting their rapid population growth and alarmingly high rates of HIV and chronic hepatitis B compared to the general population. These communities encounter substantial barriers to care, including low awareness of preventative measures like PrEP, pervasive stigma, language barriers, and fear associated with immigration status, which collectively hinder access to testing, treatment, and culturally appropriate healthcare services. Existing awareness initiatives often overlook the distinct factors influencing these high infection rates among African immigrants, who are frequently misclassified in health surveillance data. To address these critical issues, the resolution supports designating September 9 as "National African Immigrant and Refugee HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis Awareness Day" (NAIRHHA Day). This day aims to bring local and national attention to HIV/AIDS and viral hepatitis within these populations through culturally and linguistically appropriate methods. Its objectives include raising awareness , eliminating stigma, educating communities on prevention and treatment, and advocating for policies that promote healthier outcomes by encouraging robust screening, vaccination, and linkage to care.

Bill texts

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Timeline

  1. Submitted in House

  2. Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

    House of Representatives

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