At least, that’s the goal which the HIV Commission mentioned in their press release. It coincides with World AIDS Day (1 December) that reminds us that Covid-19 is not the only life-threatening virus that people are struggling with.

It is estimated that 3,000 people are diagnosed with HIV every year. Like in many other cases, the later diagnosis of HIV means more risks. HIV Commission aims at using every single opportunity to take the test.

“Testing for HIV whenever blood is taken in England – regardless of the person’s gender, ethnicity or sexuality is crucial to meet the government’s pledge to end new HIV cases by its 2030 goal,” -writes Andie Dyer in the press release.

The Final Report and Recommendations are now available to view on HIV Commission’s website. Also many renowned figures shared their support for the whole action, including Matt Hancock, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Kier Starmer, the Leader of the Labour Party or Sir Elton John:

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tGt6RIwerFM]

Video by: HIV Commission

Each year, since 1988, the World AIDS Day aims at raising the awareness. Sexual health care is as important as any other and when asked if they’d like to have the test taken, people shouldn’t feel offended.

The AIDS disease is fatal and no cure for it has been invented yet, but the virus that causes it, isn’t a death sentence. It’s possible to live with HIV, but it has to be diagnosed first.

 

Words: Karolina Pracht | Subbing: Monika Laimaite