This week is National HIV Testing Week, promoting free HIV testing among the most affected population groups in England.
Regular testing helps to reduce the number of people living with undiagnosed HIV and those diagnosed late.
Most new infections come from unprotected sex with someone who doesn’t know they have HIV as people can live with HIV for a long time without any symptoms, so testing is the only way to know your HIV status.
Testing for HIV is confidential, free, quick and easy and can be done at one of Knowsley’s Axess Sexual Health clinics in Huyton or Kirkby. Book online here: Find your local Axess clinic
If you test positive, finding out means you can start treatment, stay healthy and avoid passing the virus on to anyone else.
Most people will get a negative result, but whatever happens, it’s important to know that anyone diagnosed with HIV in the UK can access free treatment and support.
There are many ways to test – at a sexual health clinic, your GP, through HIV and sexual health charities or by ordering a test online.
Anyone diagnosed with HIV in the UK can access free treatment and support.
For more information visit HIV Prevention England.
Merseyside Charity, Sahir, provides free support to any Knowsley residents affected by HIV. You can speak in confidence with one of the HIV support workers by phoning 0151 673 1972 or emailing info@sahir.uk.com. Information about the range of support and advice available can be found on at LGBTQ+ and HIV Charity in Liverpool City Region – Sahir
Axess is the free sexual health service for Knowsley. They can help with any sexual health concerns and provide virtual and face to face support. The service also delivers a clinic to provide Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), which is a form of medicine that prevents HIV and is provided to eligible residents who wish to accept the offer. You can find out more at https://www.axess.clinic/