Up to 1,700
Washington State residents may unknowingly be HIV-positive

According to a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, between 1,100 and 1,700 people in Washington State may be HIV-positive without knowing it, reports the Associated Press.

National estimates for people unaware of HIV contraction range from 180,000 to 280,000. Maxine Hayes, state health officer, told the AP that all people should be treated at least once for HIV, and annually if a person is part of a high-risk group.

Blacks and Hispanics are disproportionately affected, while other high-risk groups include homosexual, bisexual, and transgender men; women with high-risk partners; and people who use contaminated needles to inject drugs. (The Advocate)