Eight new HIV patients in 2016

MP urges testing

Eight more people were diagnosed with HIV in Forth Valley in the first six months of this year.

It brings to 173 the number of people currently living with the disease in the area.

Stirling MP Steven Paterson urged those with a greater risk of contracting HIV to undergo tests and “give themselves the best chance of living a full life”.

He said: “Whilst there are encouraging advancements in medical science in helping us battle the HIV virus, there is still no known cure.

“However, NHS Scotland does offer post-exposure

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prophylaxis (PEP) treatment for those who feel they have been put at risk within a previous 72-hour period.

“This treatment can eradicate the HIV virus after it has entered a person’s system but it must be administered quickly.

“The Scottish Government is also looking at the benefits of PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) which is a continuous treatment said to prevent any HIV infection when brought into contact.

“It must be stressed how important regular screening is and that’s why I am urging constituents to get tested.”

For more information about sexual health services in Forth Valley visit www. centralsexualhealth.org.