11 February 2025

This week is National HIV Testing Week, and the importance of getting a free test has been highlighted across the Trust with public information displays at Frimley Park and Wexham Park Hospitals.

People can live undiagnosed with HIV – which stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus – for years, without obvious signs or symptoms, but with the virus causing damage silently, weakening the immune system.

“In the UK, it is estimated there are 5,000 to 6,000 people living with HIV and not knowing they have it,” said Avi (Nishan) Khanal, HIV surveillance clinical nurse specialist for Frimley Health.

“Once diagnosed, people living with HIV can access free, effective treatment which means they can have a normal life expectancy and can’t pass on the virus. That’s better for the individual, as they can stay healthy, and better for the community as we can stop further transmission. It only takes a finger-prick test to find your HIV status. Get yourself tested to protect yourself and others.”

The UK Government has set a goal of ending new HIV transmissions in England by 2030, and to provide people who test positive with the right care.

In support of National HIV Testing Week, the Prime Minister undertook an HIV home test in No10 Downing Street on Monday.

“It is really important to do it, and I am pleased to have taken part,” he said. “It’s easy, it is quick. And during testing week you can get a test free – so it is a great time to also take part.

“If people test, they will know their status, it is better that people know, and that is a good thing because you can then get access to treatment.”

For more information, and to order a free and confidential HIV test to do at home, visit www.freetesting.hiv.