This Sunday, 1 December, marks World Aids Day and our Public Health Team are encouraging people to get tested.
The UK Government have set the goal of ending HIV Transmission by 2030 and in Coventry we’re emphasising the importance of HIV testing, early diagnosis, and timely treatment as a means of ending HIV transmission.
Since 1988, communities have stood together on World AIDS Day to show strength and solidarity against HIV stigma. Many people show their support for the cause by wearing a red ribbon, a universal symbol of HIV.
In Coventry a number of events are taking place to raise awareness of the issue and encourage people to get tested. Events include:
- On the 1 December, Coventry Pride will be holding a vigil at the Tin Music & Arts Centre at 7pm, during which they will be raising funds for Terence Higgins Trust. The Terence Higgins Trust is a leading UK charity that provides support and resources for people living with HIV.
- Coventry Pride will also be exhibiting a quilt at Coventry Cathedral on the 2 December. The quilt was made last year through the Health Protection Grant Scheme to help raise awareness of the impact of AIDS and HIV, specifically in this community
- On Friday 6 December, Wellbeing Monitor, a Council-commissioned service working with local Black African communities, will be delivering their monthly health clinic outside the RCCG Church, on Albert Street in Hillfields. This clinic provides free, confidential testing for HIV and Hepatitis B and C and is available to all Coventry residents.
Councillor Kamran Caan, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Sport, said: “The Government has set the target of ending HIV Transmission by 2030 and we are fully behind that goal in Coventry.
“I want to encourage everyone to get tested, particularly if you are in one of those the groups that’s at higher risk of getting HIV. Testing helps to catch the infection early which reduces the likelihood of transmission and also allows people to get the help that will mean they can they need to live a long and healthy life.
“Throughout history, so many people have lost their lives and loved ones to this terrible infection. Today on World Aids Day, let’s remember those people and honour them by doing what we can to help combat the spread of this infection.
While HIV represents a risk for everyone, certain groups are at higher risk. For more information visit HIV – Coventry City Council.
For more information on how to get tested for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, please visit STI Testing Information | Sexual Health Hub
Show your support for World AIDS Day this year and get tested for HIV.