Supporting mums with HIV to give birth to healthy babies is just one of the success stories worth celebrating on World AIDS Day, which is on next Thursday, December 1.
One in six people diagnosed with HIV in NSW is heterosexual, and at least 10 per cent of people with HIV do not know they carry the virus and therefore can transmit to others without knowing.
Those are the statistics that South Western Sydney Local Health District hopes will prompt more people to get tested for HIV.
Dr Louise Evans from the Liverpool Hospital HIV Clinic stressed the importance of diagnosis, and treatment to improving health outcomes as well as stopping transmission.
“A person with HIV who is on treatment in 2016 can expect a near-normal life expectancy and to live a healthy life,” Dr Evans said.
“Health professionals now view and treat HIV like any other manageable chronic condition.”
In the week leading up to World AIDS Day, health professionals across NSW are encouraging people who are at risk of HIV to be tested.
In addition to encouraging gay and homosexually active men to continue regular testing, NSW Health is also encouraging the following groups to get a test:
Heterosexual men and women with behaviours putting them at risk of HIV, such as men who sometimes have sex with other men, and people who inject drugs
People from countries where there are high rates of HIV and people who have had unprotected sex while travelling.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“It’s important for people to know that it’s never been easier to get tested,’’ Dr Evans said.[/social_quote]
“HIV testing is fast, free and confidential.”
Free HIV and STI testing is available at Liverpool Sexual Health Clinic, phone 9827 8022.
All GPs also provide HIV & STI testing.
Bankstown Water Tower will be lit up red from 8pm on Thursday, December 1 while during the day, Liverpool Hospital will be marking World Aids day with a lunchtime barbecue at the main entrance from 11am.
Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation will also be lit up red and the Corner Youth Service in Bankstown will be inviting local young people to listen to the stories of positive speakers over a cupcake decorating class.
For confidential information on where to get a HIV test call NSW Sexual Health Infolink on 1800 451 624.
In the lead up to World AIDS Day visit the HIV test website here to learn more about HIV testing and living with HIV.
