The first ever National HIV Testing Week is running from 23rd-1st December. Here are some good reasons to test…
• 1:  If you find out you have HIV early and start treatment on time, there is a very good chance it will have little effect on the length or quality of your life.
• 2: If you only find out you have HIV when you become sick, you’re nine times more likely to die within a year.
• 3: If you know you have HIV and you are on treatment, it is extremely unlikely that you could pass it on to someone else.
• 4: HIV testing is easier than ever – there are lots of places and times to test, you can even do it by post!
• 5: The new HIV tests are fast – some rapid tests give your result in 60 seconds.
• 6: If you have HIV and don’t test, it won’t go away. It’s better to find out and get the healthcare and treatment you need straight away.
• 7: If you do find out you have HIV, it will prevent you from infecting your partners without knowing.
• 8: If your result is negative you can get advice and information from clinicians about staying negative.
• 9: Clinic staff won’t be shocked or judge you about any aspects of your sex or social life. Be open about the sex you have and then you’ll get the best advice to keep yourself safe.
• 10: Peace of mind. Either way, it’s better to know your HIV status.
• 2 minutes of your time + FREE HIV test = £10 for charity
• World AIDS Day HIV Test World Record Attempt
• G-A-Y Bar, 30 Old Compton Street, W1D 4UR
• Saturday 1st December, midday to 8pm
On World AIDS Day last year (1st Dec) G-A-Y, in partnership with 56 Dean Street sexual health clinic set a record for the most people tested for HIV at a single venue across eight hours. This year they will be attempting the same again, and for every person tested, G-A-Y will donate £10 to the Elton John AIDS Foundation.
Please head down to G-A-Y Bar on December 1st, as it will only require a few minutes of your time. Not only will you be safer by knowing your status, you will also be helping a very worthy cause and be part of a world record attempt!
