Sir Keir Starmer has taken an HIV take a look at in an effort to assist destigmatise checking for the sexually transmitted virus.
The prime minister took the house take a look at at 10 Downing Avenue to mark the beginning of HIV Testing Week, and did so alongside soul singer Beverley Knight, who’s a powerful advocate for HIV consciousness.
Sir Keir mentioned: “It’s really important to do it and I’m really pleased to be able to do it. It’s very easy, very quick.”
Richard Angell, chief government of HIV charity The Terrence Higgins Belief, mentioned he believes Sir Keir is the primary prime minister of a G7, European or NATO nation to take an HIV take a look at.
After saying he was “surprised”, the PM added: “Let’s try to encourage other leaders to do the same thing because it’s really important, it’s easy, it’s convenient and it is much better to know.”
Mr Angell mentioned: “It’s an important symbol for people who live with HIV, for fighting the stigma, and to let the public know that tests are free, confidential and easy and available for everyone during this week, and it will make a big difference.”
Picture:Sir Keir with Mr Angell, who’s CEO of The Terrence Higgins Belief. Pic: PA
Round 107,000 folks dwell with HIV within the UK, with roughly 4,700 regarded as unaware of their standing.
There isn’t any remedy for HIV, which damages the cells in your immune system and weakens your capacity to combat on a regular basis infections and illness. However there are very efficient drug remedies that allow most individuals with the virus to dwell a protracted and wholesome life.
As a part of HIV Testing Week, which matches on till Sunday, folks can order one in all 20,000 free and confidential at-home checks, which give a end in quarter-hour.
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Sir Keir has pledged to finish new transmissions of HIV in England by 2030, and on World Aids Day final yr introduced £27m for an expanded testing programme in NHS emergency departments.
Knight turned a campaigner for the motion after her buddy Tyrone Jamison died of an AIDS-related sickness in 2003.
She mentioned: “Residing with HIV at this time is a world away from the expertise that my late finest buddy Tyrone endured within the early 2000s.
“Folks dwelling with HIV can now simply know their standing, can entry efficient remedy and dwell a protracted, wholesome life.
“I want this was the case for Ty.
“In his reminiscence, I’m utilizing my voice alongside the prime minister to make everybody conscious of how simple it’s to check.
“People need to hear the crucial message that thanks to effective medication, people living with HIV can’t pass it on, so we can end this epidemic once and for all.”
