HAMPSHIRE County Council is backing the national HIV Testing Week, which aims to encourage more people to get tested for the infection.

It is estimated that one in five of more than 100,000 people who are living with HIV do not know they have the disease and are at increased risk of passing the virus on to others.

The awareness week, which runs until November 30, is particularly targeting those who are most at risk including people from African communities, gay men, people who have multiple sexual partners and those who inject drugs.

The most common way that HIV is transmitted is through unprotected sex.

Early diagnosis of HIV and timely treatment and support can mean a near-normal life span and better long term health outcomes. Councillor Liz Fairhurst, executive member for adult social care and public health at the county council, said: “Although nationally the proportion of people being diagnosed late has reduced slightly we are hoping this campaign will further encourage those most at risk to get an HIV test. “In Hampshire, not only can people get an HIV test at their local sexual health clinic but they can also access Solent NHS Trust’s Quick Check service which is available at a number of community venues across Hampshire.”

The Quick Check tests are free, confidential and quick - a simple finger prick with the results often available in 60 seconds. For local resources and information on HIV testing in Hampshire visit www.letstalkaboutit.nhs.uk/ and click on the HIV Lives section.