Leicester marks World AIDS Day

NHS Leicester City and LASS (Leicestershire AIDS Support Services) are encouraging people to wear a red ribbon this World AIDS Day.

Over 600 people in Leicester sought NHS care for HIV in 2008. Research predicts another 200 people in Leicester have HIV but don’t know it.

It’s World AIDS Day on Tuesday December 1 which this year is themed around fighting prejudice and reducing stigma.

NHS Leicester City is working in partnership with LASS to raise awareness of the reality of HIV as well as holding an informative workshop for staff on the day.

Liz Rodrigo, public health specialist in sexual health at NHS Leicester City said: “We estimate more than 200 people in the city have HIV and don’t know it. HIV is a virus that affects the way that your immune system protects you from infections. It is mostly passed on by men and women having unprotected sex, sharing infected needles and from a HIV positive mother to her child.

“If you have put yourself at risk, get tested. The earlier you know, the lesser the effects of the virus on your body and the more treatment options you will have.”

Jenny Hand, chief executive for LASS, said: “Since June LASS has been providing free confidential HIV advice in non-medical settings. We are using World AIDS Day this year to launch an extension of the times we are open for testing and to take HIV testing into more community groups.

“We are encouraging people to reflect on the reality of HIV and AIDS for themselves, their families and communities and to show their support for people living with HIV by wearing red ribbons.”

For further information on HIV and AIDS log onto www.nhs.uk or for more information on the new opening times for HIV testing visit www.lass.org.uk or call 0116 255 9995.

For interviews or more information please contact: press officer Liz Mattock on 0116 295 4123 or liz.mattock@leicestercity.nhs.uk

LASS testing times
Mon 9.30am – 5pm,
Tues 3pm – 5pm
Wed 11am – 6pm
Thurs 9.30am – 5pm
Friday 9am – 10am

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