1st December is World Aids Day and to mark it, this year we want to break the stigma around HIV, equipping you with the knowledge of prevention, treatment and most importantly where to get tested.
HIV or human immunodeficiency virus is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. Through misinformation, outdated beliefs and prejudice those living with HIV can face discrimination.
HIV-related stigma and discrimination can significantly impact the health, lives and wellbeing of people living with or at risk of HIV, creating a barrier to accessing healthcare. We want to equip you with the knowledge of effective treatment, testing and the support available so we can work together to break the stigma.
FInd out more about the symptoms, treatment and how to prevent the spread of HIV from the NHS guide here.
Break the Stigma: What is U=U?
Did you know that people on effective treatment for HIV cannot pass it on?
HIV treatment works by reducing the viral load in the body to become “undetectable” therefore becoming “untransmittable”. Anyone living with HIV who is on effective treatment and achieved U=U has a zero risk of transmitting the virus to their partners irrespective of their sexual orientation. Understanding this is crucial for eliminating the stigma and challenging the misconceptions surrounding HIV. Happy, healthy and safe relationships are possible for those living with HIV!
Know your PrEP from your PEP
PrEP and Pep are both HIV medications that are available but work slightly differently. Now is the time to get to know them a little bit better…
‘PrEP = Prevention’
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is used to reduce the risk of getting HIV. It’s an effective tool for people at risk of HIV to prevent HIV. PrEP works by stopping HIV from getting into your body and making copies of itself (replicating).
‘PEP = Protection’
PEP is Post Exposure Prophylaxis and is prescribed if a medical professional has assessed that you have a risk of catching HIV from your recent exposure. This is a 30-day course of medication with a follow up appointment provided.
You can access both PrEp and PEP from your local Sexual Health Clinic and is available for everyone.
People who have regular condomless sex are at a higher risk of HIV should consider taking PrEP.
Next Steps: Get Tested and Support
Regular STI and HIV testing is important to make sure you know your status and can confidently enjoy a safe sex life; plus regular testing also allows for early diagnosis and timely treatment.
Get to know the charities and support services available to you
Axess –services include contraception, STI testing and treatment, HIV healthcare, PrEP, PEP, pregnancy testing, sexual problems service and cervical screening.
SH24 – A free online sexual health service, delivered in partnership with the NHS. They offer a Free STI test kit with results in 7 days
Terrence Higgins Trust - UK-wide sexual health and HIV charity providing free information, support, testing services, and advice for people living with or affected by HIV.
Sahir House - Liverpool-based HIV support service offering free, confidential counselling, peer groups, welfare advice, and outreach for people living with or affected by HIV.
Remember: HIV isn’t exclusive to certain communities, and we all have a part to play to get tested, reduce the spread, and break the stigma.