Rapid HIV test from Terrence Higgins Trust
SEXUAL health and HIV charity Terrence Higgins Trust is launching a new rapid HIV testing service in Eastbourne.
Fastest is free and confidential, and involves taking a finger-prick blood test which is analysed straight away.
Test results are given on the day and the whole process take about an hour.
Fastest offers a new type of test which can detect the virus just four weeks after the date of infection.
Previous tests were only reliable three months after exposure to the virus. The clinic is open to everyone, but is particularly targeted at gay men, where a high proportion of HIV remains undiagnosed.
Testing is also available for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including gonorrhoea, syphilis, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and chlamydia.
Those who attend the clinic will be given information and support before and after the test, and anyone who tests positive will be given full support in choosing a treatment centre.
As well as testing, staff at Fastest can also provide free condoms, advice and information and information on the range of support services provided by THT including counselling and peer support.
Peter Boorman, health promotion practitioner for THT in Eastbourne, said, "It is important to have a service in Eastbourne that can offer HIV test results within an hour.
"There is strong evidence that some people come forward for testing very late, sometimes when they are already ill.
"We hope that by making it easier and quicker to have an HIV test, more people will come forward."
The new service takes place at the Avenue Clinic in the centre of Eastbourne. Appointments can be made, or people can opt to 'drop in' when the clinic is open.
People are advised to call the clinic on 01323 416100 for clinic times and appointments.
To find out more about Fastest call the Avenue House clinic on 01323 416100 for clinic times and to make an appointment, or call Peter Boorman at THT in Eastbourne on 01323 649 927 / 07919 151133.
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