North Cornwall MP tests for HIV to raise awareness of regular testing
Local residents are encouraged to get tested for the virus during National HIV Testing Week
North Cornwall’s MP Scott Mann has publicly tested for HIV to encourage local residents to follow his lead.
People are being encouraged to test for the virus during National HIV Testing Week, which takes place until today (Sunday 11 February).
Figures reveal last year, almost half (44%) of HIV diagnoses were classed as late – at a point when damage to the immune system had begun.
It’s also estimated that around 4,500 people in England are living with undiagnosed HIV.
Scott tested himself for HIV using a self-test, which is free, easy and provides a result within just 15 minutes and shows how quick and easy testing for HIV now is.
Free HIV testing kits are available to order across England during National HIV Testing Week, with the option of a self-test and result within 15 minutes, or self-sampling option where you send a small blood sample to the lab.
The only way to know that you’re living with HIV is by getting tested. Effective treatment means you can live a long, healthy life with HIV and, once the virus is suppressed, HIV can’t be passed on to partners.
It’s estimated that around 4,500 people in England are living with undiagnosed HIV. To meet the government’s target of ending new HIV cases by 2030, it will be essential to find everyone with undiagnosed HIV so they can access treatment and can’t pass it on.
Scott Mann MP said: "It was great to find out for myself how quick, easy and painless testing for HIV is. Anyone can be affected by HIV and so I am pleased to raise awareness about the importance of testing. Early testing and diagnosis are key to preventing new HIV transmissions. I hope that by testing publicly, I’m doing my bit to remove the stigma around HIV testing. There are now a range of testing options available, whether at a sexual health clinic or in the comfort of your own home."
Richard Angell, Chief Executive of Terrence Higgins Trust, said: "We’re delighted that Scott took the time to have an HIV test and show just how quick and easy it is to be sure of your status. Most people who get tested will receive a negative result, but the only way to know is to test. Today, if you do test positive, effective treatment means you can live as long as anyone else, while also reducing the amount of virus in your blood to such low levels that you cannot pass on HIV."
Terrence Higgins Trust provides support, information and advice services for those living with HIV and affected by HIV or poor sexual health.
National HIV Testing Week is part of HIV Prevention England, which is coordinated by Terrence Higgins Trust on behalf of the Department of Health. The week encourages people to take a painless, simple and quick HIV test.
You can find out more about National HIV Testing Week on the Starts With Me website.