Think you know about HIV?

It’s been over 30 years since the HIV virus was discovered, and despite huge advances in treatment, there is still stigma and fear surrounding HIV.

While medical breakthroughs mean HIV is now a manageable long-term condition, attitudes have not kept up with these developments.

How does HIV affect someone’s life?

Things have moved on hugely since the virus was discovered in the 1980s. Treatments are now very effective, and although there is still no cure, people with HIV can expect to live long and healthy lives.

Early detection of the virus is best, as it means someone can get the treatment and care they need early. Later diagnosis can affect how poorly someone might become and the impact HIV might have on their life. That’s why it’s really important to get tested if you think you might have been at risk.

Why is HIV still so feared?

In the 1980s, HIV was a new disease and many of the treatments we have now were yet to be developed. Because of this, the outlook wasn’t good. Lots of people remember the shocking TV adverts from around this time. Things have moved on, but many people’s attitudes haven’t.

It may be that there is concern about sending out mixed messages; if we publicise how far we’ve come, people might think they don’t need to worry about HIV. It’s still really important to know the risks, keep yourself safe and to get tested.

How can I get tested?

There are lots of ways people can get tested in Nottingham. The Health Shop offers a friendly and supportive service. We provide pre and post-test discussion. We can also offer the HIV fast test (certain criteria applies) where results are given within the hour.

For people who test positive, we have a clinical psychologist who specialises in working with people with HIV.

There are also other services in Nottingham. The Terrence Higgins Trust is based on High Pavement and offers testing and support. For more information, call them on 0115 882 0121 or email info@tht.org.uk.

Nottingham University Hospitals provide testing at both GUM (at the City Hospital) and Victoria Health Centre on Glasshouse Street. For more information check out nuh.nhs.uk.

Thanks to Lou Wilkins from The Health Shop for providing information for this blog