SDLP Foyle MP Mark Durkan has taken an HIV test at Westminster to support World AIDS Day and to raise awareness about the importance of HIV testing – not least for people in Derry and throughout the North.
HIV is a virus that can affect any sexually active person and children born to HIV positive women.
A team of experts from Central and North West London’s Bloomsbury HIV Clinic, provided on-site HIV testing, information and advice to MPs at the parliamentary event.
Although HIV is manageable and people with HIV can lead a healthy life with a near-normal life expectancy, late diagnosis of HIV remains an important public health issue.
Thirteen per cent of people with HIV in the UK are unaware of their status and therefore not getting the care they need. A person with untreated HIV is more likely to pass the virus on and more likely to become ill.
Mr Durkan said: “I am delighted to support World AIDS Day and help raise awareness of the importance of HIV testing.
“Encouraging people to take a test, and to access highly effective treatment if needed, is more important than ever.
“The test is fast and simple – and one of the best weapons we have to stop the spread of HIV.
“An HIV test can be taken at home, at the hospital, at your GP surgery, at a sexual health clinic; almost anywhere you want to take it. It is not something to be feared.
“HIV is treatable, but it is vital that people get tested so they can receive treatment if necessary.”
Cristian Sandulescu, Patient Representative from the Bloomsbury Network, said: “HIV testing is about looking after yourself and being responsible and this event helps show the way. HIV is a long term manageable condition and the earlier the diagnosis, the better it is for the patient, so it’s important to get tested no matter who you are.”
