Family left devastated as mum dies suddenly after blood clot

RUSSELL T Davies has urged people to get tested this HIV Testing Week in Wales.

The It’s A Sin writer, pictured, has spoken out in support for Wales’s first National HIV Testing Week.

Organised by Fast Track Cardiff & Vale, the organisation is leading a “trailblazing” campaign to raise awareness of HIV testing and is encouraging people to take up regular testing.

Fast Track Cardiff & Vale is a part of a global network of cities aiming to achieve zero HIV stigma and zero new transmissions of HIV by 2030.

“Testing has never been easier, you can do it at home with your own kit,” the TV writer said.

“The treatment is now so good you can live a long, full, proper life – but only if you get tested and treated. We can pull together and test together and make sure that HIV is stopped being passed on in Wales.”

National HIV Testing Week runs until May 21. HIV Testing Week will largely take place online, with materials and messages being published to raise awareness and keep the conversation going.

Wales, according to Fast Track Cardiff, has a “higher prevalence” of HIV stigma and late HIV diagnoses in comparison to other areas of the UK. Figures also suggest the newly introduced free postal testing kit is increasing testing figures through the Covid-19 pandemic.

PREP was recently introduced for people in Wales. The progressive drug will prevent people from contracting HIV and is widely available at sexual health clinics across Wales.

Gian Molinu, chair of Fast Track Cardiff & Vale, said: “Treatment is now so good that you can not only live a full life but it will stop you from passing the virus on. But to get vital treatment you have to get tested. We wanted to deliver a uniquely Welsh Testing Week focusing on the need to improve HIV testing figures here in Wales.”