Local MPs take public HIV test during National HIV Testing Week

Caroline Lucas  MP for Brighton Pavilion and Peter Kyle MP for Hove & Portslade took a public HIV test in an effort to encourage more local people to test for the virus during National HIV Testing Week.

Organised by Terrence Higgins Trust (THT), both MPs met with volunteers and staff to discuss the importance of normalising testing and busting stigma.

Both MPs had a simple finger-prick blood test and negative results were delivered within 15 minutes of the test.

New figures released by Public Health England in October 2017 revealed that a decline in new HIV infections but late diagnoses remain high.

National HIV Testing Week, which ran from November 18 – 25, was run by THT on behalf of HIV Prevention England. The week encourages people to take a painless, simple and quick HIV test, particularly those from the groups most at-risk of HIV, including men who have sex with men and black African communities.

Peter Kyle MP said: “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.

“The fear and stigma surrounding HIV is still a barrier to testing so I hope Ive shown today that having a test is fuss-free and easy and that I can help make the stigma and fear around HIV a thing of the past.”

Caroline Lucas MP, added: “Knowing your HIV status is important, as it can help ensure early diagnoses and prevent transmission. I support National HIV Testing Week and will continue supporting THT in ending the stigma that surrounds HIV and testing for it, and then eliminating it altogether.”

 

Ruth Berry from THT Brighton, said: “We’re delighted that Caroline Lucas MP and Peter Kyle have taken the time to take a HIV test today and show just how quick and easy it is to be sure of your status.

“Whoever you are, it’s important to get a HIV test between partners, or more regularly if you have multiple partners. It’s vital that people know if they have HIV or not so that they can access treatment to protect their health as quickly as possible.”

For more information about National HIV Testing Week, click here: