National HIV Testing Week
The annual awareness programme – HIV Testing Week – is part of the government’s action plan to reduce new HIV infections by 80 per cent by 2025 and eradicate new cases of HIV by 2030. HIV can affect anyone and as people can live with the virus for a long time without any symptoms, testing is the only way to know your HIV status.
Testing for HIV is quick and confidential and can even be done at home. Free finger-prick tests, delivered in discreet packaging, can be ordered online at www.startswithme.org.uk/testing-for-hiv with the results available by text within a few days.
Darrell Gale, East Sussex Director of Public Health, said: “Regular testing is something we can all take personal responsibility for and help reduce the number of people living with undiagnosed HIV and those diagnosed late.
“In 2021, 46 per cent of people first diagnosed in England were diagnosed late, which correlates to poorer long-term health outcomes. Very effective HIV treatments exist today, so the sooner you get tested, diagnosed and start treatment, the better it is for your, and others’, long-term health. With the HIV medication available most people living with the virus, if diagnosed early and regularly taking the HIV treatment, will live their full natural lifespan.”
As well as home testing, people can also get tested at their local GP surgery or specialist sexual health clinic. Mr Gale continued: “It’s recommended everyone tests for HIV at least once a year and more regularly if you’ve had unprotected sex or more than one partner. Testing is free, easy, quick and discreet. Anyone diagnosed with HIV in the UK can access free treatment and support.”
National HIV Testing Week runs from 6 to 12 February 2023. More information about the campaign, run by HIV Prevention England, is available at startswithme.org.uk.
We hope you have enjoyed reading this article. The future of our volunteer led, non-profit publication would be far more secure with the aid of a small donation. You can also support local journalism by becoming a friend of HIP. It only takes a minute and we would be very grateful.
Leave a Reply