HIV hasn’t gone away

This highlights the continuing increasing trend in the number of annual new HIV diagnoses seen in recent years.

The number of new HIV diagnoses in Northern Ireland rose by 3 per cent, from 80 in 2010 to 82 in 2011. There are now 522 people living with HIV infection in Northern Ireland, an increase of 10% on 2010.

Of the 82 new HIV diagnoses 48 of these occurred in men who have sex with men (MSM). This group still remains at most risk of acquiring HIV within the UK, while the majority of heterosexual cases are acquired abroad.

Dr Jillian Johnston, Specialist Registrar, Public Health Agency, said: “We want to take the opportunity presented by World AIDS Day to raise awareness about HIV. The safer sex message applies to everyone, regardless of whether you are straight or gay. We know people may be infected with HIV without knowing, so it is important to protect yourself and to stop the spread of infection to others. Use condoms, limit the number of your sexual partners, and get checked at your local Genito Urinary Medicine (GUM) clinic or your GP surgery, if you could be at risk.”

For information or advice on HIV, or to discuss any sexual health issue, contact your local GUM clinic or your GP.