The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust is proud to support HIV Testing Week, an annual campaign dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of HIV testing and knowing your status. This year, the Trust is calling on everyone to take a moment to consider their health and get tested for HIV.
HIV Testing Week is a crucial time to highlight the importance of early detection and treatment of HIV. Knowing your status not only helps you take control of your health but also plays a vital role in preventing transmission of the virus. Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to better health outcomes and reduce the risk of transmission to others.
Dr Nadi Gupta, Consultant and Clinical Lead for Rotherham’s Sexual Health service, said: “We need to move past the stigma around HIV. HIV has changed. Our knowledge and treatment of the virus has moved on considerably. People now live a normal life span on treatment.
“Anyone can get HIV, regardless of age, gender or sexual orientation. If we all know our status, we can reduce transmission of the virus and treat those who need it. If we provide treatment to someone who tests positive, treatment can reduce the amount of HIV in their blood to a point where the virus is no longer detectable and cannot be passed on, even without condoms. This is called Undetectable = Untransmittable or U=U.
“Testing can be done through a simple finger-prick test for an immediate result, or alternatively, a blood test. This can be arranged by contacting the Sexual Health Service based at the hospital, or through Rotherham Mesmac. There is a global target to prevent all new transmissions of HIV by 2030, so testing is crucial.”
The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust is committed to providing accessible and confidential HIV testing and sexual health screening services. Our healthcare professionals are here to support you every step of the way, offering guidance, information and care. Testing is quick, simple, and can be done in a variety of settings, including at home with self-testing kits.
HIV does not discriminate, and neither should we. By knowing your status, you can make informed decisions about your health and wellbeing.
Join us in supporting HIV Testing Week and take the first step towards a healthier future. For more information about our testing services and how to get tested, please visit the Sexual Health Service page on our website or contact our Sexual Health team at Rotherham Hospital.