'Claim your status': Somerset Council's message this World AIDS Day
Public Health Somerset works with the sexual health service and the Eddystone Trust to support people across the county
Last updated 21st Jul 2024
The number of gay men in England being diagnosed with HIV fell by 42 per cent in the last three years.
Today (December 1) marks World AIDS Day, with Somerset also marking it - with the local authority urging you to get tested.
Public Health Somerset works with the county's sexual health service and the Eddystone Trust to support people here.
Today is all about offering solidarity for people around the world who are affected by HIV - and despite Somerset having low levels of people living with the disease, the local authority say there still remains a concern for those people who are diagnosed late, and who who poorer health outcomes.
The numbers for late diagnosis are higher in Somerset than in other areas in England, particularly amongst heterosexuals over 50.
Councillor Adam Dance, Lead Executive Member for Public Health, Equality and Diversity at Somerset Council said: “There is still stigma and shame associated with HIV, and most of it is based on outdated and incorrect information. Modern treatments are really effective and where HIV is diagnosed early you can live a normal life on effective treatment.
“It is extremely important to be tested and I would encourage people to use this World Aids Day to get an HIV test and know your HIV status.
“By doing so, you ensure your sexual health is reviewed like you would do with other areas of your health, and if a positive result were detected you will improve your long-term health by starting highly effective treatment.
“Remember to wear you red ribbon too, it’s a great way to raise awareness and show your support to anyone affected by HIV.”
James Mead, Service Development Lead (Prevention) for The Eddystone Trust, added: “We continue to work on letting individuals and communities know about the advances in HIV treatment and work to ensure that HIV testing is accessible to as many people as possible.
“We work with people and communities to explain that living with HIV and being on effective treatment means that you cannot pass HIV to another sexual partner as those with an undetectable viral load mean it is un-transmittable (U=U).”
Another advancement in the fight against HIV is a drug called PrEP which can prevent you becoming HIV positive.
For more information on this, or to order your free HIV test, which can be done in the comfort of your own home, visit this website or head over to the Eddystone Trust.
Information on the national World AIDS day campaign can be found here.