Sexual Health Hounslow partners with Hounslow Council on a campaign to promote regular HIV testing and bust myths about HIV care & treatment.
Sexual Health Hounslow (SHH), part of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, is teaming up with Hounslow Council to deliver a campaign that raises awareness of the importance of regular HIV testing and to tackle common misconceptions around HIV care and treatment.
The campaign, which coincides with National HIV Testing Week, aims to reduce stigma and ensure residents have access to clear, accurate information about HIV care and treatment.
At the centre of campaign is a video in which two sexual health nurses from SHH tackle perceptions and misconceptions around HIV. The video explains that HIV is no longer a life-limiting condition, and how, with effective treatment, people living with HIV can expect a normal lifespan and cannot pass the virus on to others. It also highlights why regular testing is important for everyone.
The campaign is supported by a webpage which provides a more extensive Q&A section on HIV, testing and treatment.
Advances in HIV care over the years mean many people living with HIV experience no symptoms and, when diagnosed early and treated effectively, can live healthy lives with no risk of transmission. However, this is only possible if people are aware of their HIV status.
Testing remains the most effective way to reduce the spread of HIV and prevent harm, helping us beat the spread of HIV and support the Government’s HIV action plan of no new HIV transmissions by 2030.
To order a free testing kit, just head to the Sexual Health London website. You can also speak to your GP or local sexual health clinic about getting tested for free.
Councillor Lily Bath, Hounslow Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Transformation, said: “The advances in HIV treatment are one of the greatest medical successes in recent history. The treatment available now means people can live with HIV with virtually no impact on their lives.
“But it’s crucial people are aware of their status so that they can get the medication they need. That’s why we’re encouraging everyone to test regularly. It keeps all of us safe and supports our brilliant NHS as they work to minimise the spread of HIV and reach those who need treatment.”
Dr Ellen Dwyer, Clinical Lead at Sexual Health Hounslow, said: “This campaign is an important step in addressing persistent myths around HIV and ensuring that everyone in Hounslow has equal access to testing and care. Routine HIV testing is a key part of preventative healthcare, and local GP practices across the borough are playing a vital role in making this more accessible.
“By working in partnership with Hounslow Council, we are focused on reducing health inequalities, increasing early diagnosis, and ensuring that all communities feel confident accessing the care they need.”
