Give HIV the Finger during HIV Testing Awareness Week
Telford and Wrekin Council is calling on everyone to give HIV the finger as part of National HIV Testing week 7-11 February 2022.
It's never been easier to get an HIV test and get a result quickly—all it takes is a quick finger-prick test.
You can get a test in person or order tests online, with free and paid-for options available through Telford and Wrekin's Sexual Health services and charities such as Terrence Higgins Trust.
Tests will provide you with a result in just a few minutes and anyone diagnosed with HIV in the UK can access free treatment and support.
The sooner a test is taken, the sooner treatment can be received if needed, and the sooner people can avoid passing the virus on to anyone else.
Cllr Kelly Middleton, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Public Health and Well-Being, Equalities and Partnerships (Labour), said:
"An HIV test is no longer something to be feared, today's treatment ensures you cannot pass on the virus and can expect to live as long as anyone else.
"So there is no need to put off testing, it is important to get tested whether you are worried about it or not as 1 in 20 people with HIV are unaware they have it.
"I have ordered my test online, and it is straightforward to do.
"I have also been to visit our Sexual Health services and have seen first-hand how helpful and friendly the staff are there.
"The sooner you find out your status and start treatment, the less likely you are to become seriously ill.
“People diagnosed late are seven times more likely to have an increased risk of death within a year of diagnosis”
You can order a free testing kit at https://freetesting.hiv/, or you can book an in-person test with our friendly staff at https://openclinic.org.uk/
Pictured: Cllr Kelly Middleton (right) with staff from Telford and Wrekin's sexual health service at Bishton Court.
