To mark World AIDS Day, NHS and local authority public health teams across Norfolk, Suffolk and north east Essex are urging people to talk openly about HIV, get tested early, and help challenge remaining stigma.

This year’s global theme — “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response” — highlights the urgent need to accelerate progress towards ending new HIV transmissions by 2030, despite the challenges posed by social stigma, inequality, and disruption to health services.

HIV is a virus that weakens the body’s immune system over time. AIDS is the advanced stage of HIV that can develop if the virus is not diagnosed and treated early. Effective treatment means people with HIV can stay healthy and typically never progress to AIDS.

Locally, health and care partners across the region are drawing attention to the increasing number of young people being diagnosed with HIV and AIDS, emphasising the importance of early conversations, awareness, and testing.

One NHS colleague, Sarah, who lives with HIV, is sharing her story to inspire others to seek support without fear of judgement.

“When I was first diagnosed, I felt scared and afraid to speak openly about it. But the support of friends and starting treatment quickly has allowed me to not only survive but thrive. I want others to know that HIV is no longer a life sentence – diagnosis and treatment make all the difference.

“There’s still a lot of stigma surrounding HIV, but it’s vital we break that silence. Self-testing kits are quick, confidential, and empowering – they give people the chance to know their status and take control of their health.”

Lisa, a fellow colleague at Suffolk and North East Essex ICB who cared for a close friend with HIV is also urging compassion and understanding for those affected by the virus.

“Caring for someone with HIV opened my eyes to fear and stigma, the emotional and practical challenges that come with the diagnosis – but also the incredible resilience people show. We need to remember that HIV doesn’t define a person and caring for someone with HIV does not transmit their infection to you. With love, understanding and good medical care, people can and do thrive.”

Health leaders across the region are also reminding people that HIV testing and treatment are widely available and confidential.

Executive Medical Director at Norfolk and Waveney and Suffolk and North East Essex ICBs, Frankie Swords said: “Even though we don’t see as much about it in the news anymore, HIV and AIDS haven’t gone away — and locally, more people are being diagnosed late, when the virus has begun to damage their immune system, compared to the rest of England.

“Early diagnosis makes all the difference, as treatment is most effective when started sooner. So, we encourage people to use NHS-approved self-testing kits or visit their local sexual health clinic – it’s simple, discreet, and could save lives.” 

Information about testing kits can be found online for both Norfolk and Suffolk areas. The Terrence Higgins Trust website also has lots of information, resources and links to support for people living with, or caring for people with HIV.

“Overcoming disruption means addressing stigma, inequality, and misinformation head-on,” added Frankie. “By transforming the HIV response — through awareness, compassion, and early action — we can protect more people and save more lives.”