On behalf of the Terrence Higgins Trust, the Duke of Sussex has recorded a PSA about getting tested for HIV.
Today is the start of National HIV Testing Week and The Duke of Sussex has shared an important message.
‘By getting tested you are helping stop the HIV epidemic in its tracks. You are helping to save lives,’ says The Duke of Sussex @KensingtonRoyal #HIVTestWeek pic.twitter.com/HbAx8qlNJ5
— Terrence Higgins Trust (@THTorguk) November 17, 2018
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In the video posted on Twitter, Prince Harry said: “Taking an HIV test is something to be proud of – not something to be ashamed or embarrassed about.
“There is still too much stigma which is stopping so many of us from getting a simple, quick and easy test.
“We won’t bring an end to HIV until testing is seen as completely normal and accessible to everyone.”
Prince Harry has taken the test in the past on Facebook Live just to show how easy it is.
In the last two years, there has been “an incredible” 28% decline in HIV diagnoses.
The rise of testing for HIV (the Human Immunodeficiency Virus) which causes AIDS, is a “major cause in the shift” Harry noted.
“This is no time for complacency.
“By not getting tested, it could kill you. By getting tested, it could save your life,” Prince Harry continues.
“We won’t bring an end to the Human Immunodeficiency Virus until testing is seen as completely normal and accessible for everyone.
“It’s simple, by getting tested you are stopping the HIV epidemic in its tracks, you’re helping to save lives.”
Prince Harry was first tested for HIV on Facebook where he commented on “how quick it is.”
Adding: “It’s better that everyone goes and gets tested. Why wouldn’t you? Whether you’re a man, woman, gay, straight, black, white, whatever, even ginger, why wouldn’t you come and have a test?”
The side-effect of that test was a 500% increase in the demand for HIV/AIDS testing.
Harry then got tested again, that time with singer Rhianna.
While visited Barbados, the two took the test together to “how easy it is to be tested for HIV.” The test took place in the centre of Bridgetown, where Prince Harry and Rihanna also met with volunteers operating the stands which had everything from a barber’s shop to a condom corner.
