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Free and quick HIV test available in Cork this Thursday

November 28th, 2016 4:52 PM

By Southern Star Team

The result of the free HIV test can be given in 60 seconds

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The HSE, in partnership with a number of Sexual Health Organisations around Ireland, is providing free Rapid HIV Testing on December 1st.

The HSE, in partnership with a number of Sexual Health Organisations around Ireland, is providing free Rapid HIV Testing on December 1st to mark World AIDS Day 2016.

World AIDS Day is an opportunity for people to unite in the fight against HIV and to show their support for people living with HIV.

The Sexual Health Centre in Cork will be welcoming anyone who would like to take a Rapid HIV Test between 9am and 5pm on 1st December at 16 Peter's Street, Cork and between 6pm-9pm in Chambers Bar, Washington Street, Cork.

A Rapid HIV Test involves a fingertip prick which takes a small sample of blood and is applied to the test kit, the result is available in 60 seconds. If there is a 'reactive' result they will be referred to the hospital where a blood test will be taken to confirm this result.  

According to Deirdre Seery, CEO at The Sexual Health Centre Cork, 'promoting condom use and regular testing remain key to reducing the spread of HIV and STIs among those who are sexually active. Being diagnosed with HIV today means something very different than it did 20 or 30 years ago. HIV is no longer a death sentence. However the stigma associated with HIV can act as a barrier to accessing testing services. HIV testing is available at a range of clinics and community based centres and I would encourage those at risk to avail of these services.'

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