World AIDS Day

World AIDS Day takes place on 1st December each year. The campaign is an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV and show support to those living with HIV.

As part of Worlds AIDS Day we are asking people in the Borders who may be at risk of HIV to get tested. People who may be at risk include men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs and people from high prevalence countries particularly sub-Saharan African ones.

HIV attacks your immune system (CD4 cells) and in most cases will weaken your ability to fight infections and other diseases like cancer.

Dr Tim Patterson, Joint Director of Public Health said: "It is extremely important that people who are at risk of HIV are tested as soon as possible so they can be diagnosed early."

He added: "HIV treatment advances mean that people living with HIV can live healthily for a long time if they are diagnosed early."

If you think you are at risk, or if you would like a test, please visit your local GP practice or contact Borders Sexual Health on 01896 663700 and ask to be tested.

For more information about World AIDS Day visit: https://www.worldaidsday.org/