THERE was an increase in people being tested for HIV in York last week, nurses reported.

People in the city can now have a rapid test in which results come back in 20 minutes.

As part of National HIV Testing Week last week, North Yorkshire Aids Action (NYAA) in St Saviourgate reported a rise in people dropping in or booking appointments and is has urged people to continue to come in to have the test done.

The new testing means people do not have to go through the worry of waiting for up to two weeks for results, Kathryn Gallon, manager at North Yorkshire Aids Action, said, adding it is important for people who may be at risk of HIV to get tested as a negative result gives reassurance and a positive one means people can get treatment.

Ms Gallon said: “It means you can take control of your life. If it's a positive test you can have health care straight away.

“Before it was off-putting to have to wait a long time. This is free, confidential, quick and simple.”

Dr Ian Fairley, clinical director for sexual health services at York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said: “There is no downside to HIV testing. If you test positive, you get access to very effective treatment.

"The people who become ill or die with HIV nowadays are the ones who don’t know they have HIV. Treatment can also protect against transmission to partners. So if you test positive you can protect your health and prevent giving the infection to others.”

• A drop-in service is available every Tuesday at North Yorkshire Aids Action at 20 St Saviourgate. You can also ring 01904 640024 for an appointment. For more information visit nyaa.org.uk