NSW HIV Testing Week - Still important to test during Covid19
The first week of June marks HIV Testing Week in NSW and Far West LHD wants to remind everyone that even during the COVID-19 outbreak, getting testing for HIV is still important. Despite the impact the COVID-19 outbreak has had on our lives, preventative health and routine screening are still vital.
Social distancing measures and changes to how Clinic 9 Broken Hill Sexual Health Service is running during the COVID-19 outbreak has meant people may be putting off getting tested for HIV.
'It's great so many people are keeping safe by practising physical distancing, however keeping on top of preventative health, in particular, HIV testing is just as important,' said Far West Local Health District Sexual Health Nurse Jo Lenton.
Dried Blood Spot (DBS) testing is an option for people who meet eligibility criteria to test for HIV and Hepatitis C at home. It is free, easy, reliable, and confidential, and doesn't require an appointment with a doctor or at a clinic.
Jo acknowledges that for many people privacy is important. 'DBS tests can be ordered online, done in the privacy and safety of your home, and mailed directly to the lab.' Kits are also available from Clinic 9 and all NSP sites which can be attended in person.
People should be confident that DBS tests are accurate, confidential, and easy to do; they only require a fingerprick blood sample.
Results from DBS tests take around a week, and clients can choose how to receive them. 'A nurse will be in contact via text message, email, or phone call, and are completely confidential,' said Jo.
Manager of HIV and Related Programs for Far West LHD, Ann Ryan encourages people that may have been exposed to HIV to know their status. 'By testing often, accessing treatment early, and practising safe behaviours we can all play a part in ending HIV transmission and stigma'.
'HIV is a treatable health condition,' said Ann. 'The first step to living a long, healthy life with HIV is getting tested.'
To see if you are eligible for a Dried Blood Spot test head to www.hivtest.health.nsw.gov.au or get in contact with your local Clinic 9 Broken Hill Sexual Health Clinic on +61 8 8080 1100.