HIV Test in demand as virus spreads across UK
HIV has a low profile compared to when the virus first hit British shores when effective ad campaigns raised awareness in the eighties. But a record number of new cases were reported in Scotland in 2007.
If you’re of a certain age, it can be hard to forget the hard hitting 1980s public health ads that aired across the UK featuring tombstones warning about the deadly AIDS virus. Many people were prompted to take an HIV test as a result and the awareness around safe sex was high. But since then, the battle to warn the next generations about the HIV risk has been uphill. There has been a rise in STDs in general in the younger generations, indicating safe sex isn’t always adhered to, and HIV statistics paint a bleak picture.
HIV Test – Scotland’s spiralling statistics
In 2007, Scotland saw a 29% increase in the number of affirmative HIV test results. And contrary to misconceptions about the virus, heterosexuals are just as vulnerable to the risk – the figures revealed a rise in heterosexual infections. The Health Protection Scotland said there were 446 new cases as a result of positive HIV testing. There is also a concern that there may be significant numbers of people who are not coming forward for a HIV test, and so are unaware they have the virus.
Campaign over safe sex message
Sexual health workers and campaigners fear there is a growing ignorance over HIV and STDs and the safe sex message. Of the reported 446 HIV cases reported, 188 were reported in gay men, 181 in heterosexual men and women and 9 from injecting drug users. Charities are urging more people from all sexual orientations to come forward for a HIV test and to ensure they have regular HIV testing. It’s estimated 5,415 people live with HIV in Scotland.
HIV test for sexually active
Although more people are coming forward for a HIV test in Scotland – in 2006, the figure was 38,000, whereas in 2000 it was just 17,000, campaigners still believe there is a problem with awareness and the safe sex message hitting home. A spokesman from the charity HIV Scotland told the press: “Even when a gay man has had a negative test in the past, if they are sexually active we recommend a clinic check-up and an HIV test.”
New half hour finger prick HIV test
It isn’t just Scotland where campaigners are hoping to raise awareness; the problem is clear throughout the UK. Teenagers in Manchester are being encouraged to take advantage of a new HIV test which can reveal whether they are positive for the virus or not within just half an hour. Using a simple finger prick test, schemes are in place trying to encourage young people to take more responsibility for their sexual health and come forward for the HIV test.
Looking for a HIV test? CITYDOC can help
For a complete range of STD tests, including a HIV test, London based CITYDOC is ideally and discreetly located in the City of London for fast, professional and discreet service. Based at the junction of City Road and Finsbury Square, CITYDOC is open for walk-in patients or you can book your appointment by contacting the practice now on 0207 256 8668. The clinic offers full sexual screens for men and women. If you are thinking about a HIV Test, contact CITYDOC today.
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