Free testing to mark week of HIV awareness

There are around 429 in Lancashire living with the condition.

Around a quarter of people with HIV are unaware they have it.

The main groups at risk of contracting HIV are sexually active gay men and men and women from black African communities, according to HIV Prevention England. HIV Testing Week focuses on encouraging these communities to take a test.

Dr Sakthi Karunanithi, Lancashire County Council’s director of public health, said: “We want to raise awareness of HIV testing and encourage people who are at risk, or those who are concerned they may have HIV, to take a test.

“It’s a subject that is once again in the news headlines with Hollywood actor Charlie Sheen confirming this week that he is living with HIV.

“Early diagnosis can help ensure people have a much better chance of living healthily for many years.”

Tests can be taken on Wednesday at Fleetwood Library from 10 to 11am, and St Annes Library from 2 to 3pm.