Next week marks the start of National HIV testing week (6th – 12th February), and Somerset County Council are encouraging anyone who may have put themselves at risk of getting the virus to get tested.
National HIV Testing Week takes place every year to promote regular testing for HIV and aims to identify those who are undiagnosed, avoid late diagnoses, and enable people to start effective treatment immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent potential illness and protect others from HIV infection.
The awareness week also helps to increase knowledge of HIV and testing in communities that are most affected by HIV, as well as the wider population.
HIV treatment has made huge advances and enables those living with the HIV to lead stable and healthy lives without worrying about passing the virus to others. Testing for HIV is free and puts you in control. You can access a free test at www.freetesting.hiv or it can be done in person at any of the SWISH clinics.
Wootton Courtenay 