HEALTHCARE workers across the district used World Aids Day to raise awareness of the importance of being tested.

Staff at Bevan Healthcare also celebrated how far testing and treatment had progressed since the 1980s.

And they created a ‘human ribbon’ to show solidarity with those in the district who have HIV, and their families.

Outreach co-ordinator Dominic Maddocks said: “The work done to tackle HIV and Aids has led to HIV diagnoses falling, meaning the spread of the virus is slowing down. But we cannot be complacent and people still face discrimination for their status.

“There are still people living with HIV across the district and, although there is no cure, there are effective treatments to control the infection.

“There’s no reason why anyone who has a reactive test shouldn’t live a full and active life.”

Dr Anne Connolly, clinical lead for sexual health for Bradford district and Craven clinical commissioning groups, echoes the warning against complacency.

“It’s really important to remember that HIV hasn’t gone away,” she said.

“We would encourage more people to be sure of their status by having a test, particularly if they have changed their partner.

“You can only be certain you have HIV if you have a blood test that looks specifically for the virus.

“The result will let you know if you need to carry on taking precautions to protect yourself against HIV or if you need to start lifesaving treatment and avoid spreading the virus to someone else.”

To find your nearest HIV test venue, visit aidsmap.com/hiv-test-finder.

Further information about the condition can be found at nhs.uk/conditions/hiv-and-aids.

Meanwhile, staff from Keighley social housing group Incommunities marked World Aids Day by wearing something red in exchange for a donation to the National Aids Trust.

The effort, organised by the group’s equalities steering group, raised over £100 through collections.

Greg Robinson, for Incommunities, said: “I am proud of the support shown by colleagues across the group.”