Liverpool City Council and its partners are urging everyone in the city to get tested for HIV and know their status during this year’s National HIV Testing Week, which takes place from 10th to 16th February. This confidential process is quick, free and particularly convenient this year, with numerous access points throughout the city available, as well as discreet online self-tests.
Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in reducing transmissions, as many people can live with HIV for a relatively long time without any visible symptoms. Liverpool has made huge progress towards being a Fast-Track City, a global initiative committed to putting an end to HIV and AIDS. Since 2021, the number of undiagnosed cases in Liverpool has dropped significantly from 115 to an estimated 50.
However, in order to reach zero new transmissions, regular testing is crucial. If people get a negative result, there are steps they can take to help prevent contracting HIV, such as using PrEP or condoms. Early discovery of a positive result can lead to early guidance and treatment that will give those infected a long and healthy life. Those on effective HIV treatment cannot pass on the virus to their partners, which is referred to as the U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable) breakthrough.
To support people in Liverpool to get tested, services and partners across the city will organize testing events and offer prevention advice. For those looking for facilities, Axess Sexual Health Testing is one option. This site offers information on clinic locations and online testing and you can find coverage on their social media profiles on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X. Additionally, there is a condom distribution scheme that is available throughout the city with QR codes on testing week advertisements, and testing booths will be set up at Central Library and Kuumba Imani. The Liverpool PaSH Drop In Testing scheme will have events at Phoenix Lodge YPAS, Youth Zone and Yemi’s Barber Shop. Information stalls and related engagement activities will be taking place in The Brink and RISE YMCA
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