Alarming figures from the HSE Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC ) indicate that in the early part of 2020 (up to end of March ), the numbers of newly diagnosed cases of HIV in Ireland had increased by a staggering 42% (over figures for same period in 2019 ).
Additionally, reports indicated that there had been a 11% increase in new diagnoses of Chlamydia and a further 4% increase in new diagnoses of Syphilis. These are the latest accurate figures available for 2020 as the HPSC have not been able to produce weekly reports regularly throughout 2020, due to the impact of COVID-19. The numbers of new HIV diagnoses notified in Ireland in 2019 was 537 - the highest ever reported in Ireland.
Official figures are likely to understate the number of people living with HIV as, according to UNAIDS supported modelling tool ‘Spectrum’ 10% of people living with HIV in Ireland are undiagnosed. These figures are extremely concerning for Sexual Health West (formerly AIDS West ).
This year’s theme for World AIDS Day on 1 December, will be ‘Ending the HIV/AIDS Epidemic: Resilience and Impact’. The commemoration of World AIDS Day is an important opportunity to recognize the essential role that communities and community groups like Sexual Health West have played and continue to play in the HIV response at local, national and international levels. Sexual Health West are looking to raise awareness around World AIDS Day with a number of events including an online seminar for people living with HIV, a ‘Run/Walk 5, Donate 5 Nominate 5’ fundraising event (with spot prizes for entrants ), and an online book reading.
HIV testing is essential for expanding treatment and ensuring that all people living with HIV can lead healthy and productive lives. People who are diagnosed with HIV can receive antiretroviral therapy and live long and healthy lives, with the condition often becoming undetectable, but it is essential that people take a test to know their status.
Sexual Health West CEO, Joe McDonagh states “HIV Testing is essential - people need to be aware of their HIV status and the sooner a person knows their status, the sooner they can start treatment; this then leads to much better long term health outcomes. Early diagnosis is also key, as HIV is often transmitted by people who are unaware that they are HIV Positive”.
Sexual Health West will be offering Free Confidential Rapid HIV Testing in venues across Galway City & County in the next few weeks – Note the tests are by appointment only. You can book an appointment by emailing [email protected] or calling 0860249111.
You can also find out more about Rapid HIV Testing and World AIDS Day events by following us on Instagram @sexualhealthwest, Facebook @shwestireland, Or Twitter @sexualhealthwst
