National HIV Testing Week

This week is National HIV Testing Week. The campaign aims to promote regular testing amongst the most affected population groups and to reduce the number of people living with undiagnosed HIV.  

People can live with HIV for a long time without any symptoms. Testing is the only way to know your HIV status. HIV testing is free, quick and easy and there are many ways to get tested, including at a sexual health clinic, through your GP or by ordering a test online.

If you have HIV, finding out means you can start treatment, stay healthy and avoid passing the virus onto anyone else.

Dr Nadi Gupta, Consultant and Clinical Lead for Rotherham Sexual Health Services at The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust, said: “HIV now has a normal lifespan with effective treatment. Cumulative research studies over the last 20 years have overwhelmingly proven that, once you are on effective treatment, you cannot pass it on to a sexual partner, even without a condom.

Testing for HIV is quick and easy. All it takes is a finger-prick test and you can even test from the comfort of your own home. People can live with HIV for a long time without knowing it. Anyone can be affected. Finding out sooner means that you can start treatment and stay healthy.”

Anyone can order a free HIV test kit from startswithme.org.uk.

During the week, the Rotherham Sexual Health Services team at Rotherham Hospital will be offering a drop in service for sexual health screening.

Monday 6 February - 9am to 6pm 
Tuesday 7 February - 9am to 6pm
Wednesday 8 February - 9am to 2.30pm
Thursday 9 February - 10.30am to 6pm
Friday 10 February - 9am to 4pm