World AIDS Day: Rapid BBV testing across UK healthcare settings
Every year on 1st December, World AIDS Day reminds us of the ongoing impact of HIV and other blood-borne viruses (BBVs) and provides and opportunity to honour those affected and celebrate the progress that’s been made in prevention, treatment and care. Established in 1988 by the World Health Organisation (WHO), it was the world’s first global health day, and remains a powerful reminder of the importance of awareness, early diagnosis and support.
The WHO’s goal is clear: to end HIV as a public health threat by 2030. And while huge strides have been made, there’s still more to do. Here in the UK, around 108,500 people are living with HIV, and an estimated 4,660 people are unaware of their status. That’s why access to fast, accurate testing is crucial.
At Medigold Health, we’re proud to support healthcare providers across the country by delivering rapid BBV testing solutions that make early detection faster, easier and more accessible than ever before.
What are blood-borne viruses and why does early diagnosis matter?
Blood-borne viruses (BBVs) are infections that are spread through contact with infected blood or certain bodily fluids. The most common BBVs include:
- HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) – HIV attacks the body’s immune system, but with early diagnosis and modern treatment, people can now live long, healthy lives.
- Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C – these viruses affect the liver and, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications, such as liver disease or cancer.
Many people living with BBVs don’t experience symptoms for months or even years after infection, which means they can unknowingly pass them on to others. That’s why testing is so important: it helps detect infections early, allowing treatment to begin sooner, which in turn can help improve the patient’s quality of life and significantly reduce the risk of the virus being passed to others. For example, with HIV, effective treatment can suppress the virus to undetectable levels, meaning it can’t be transmitted.
How does Medigold Health support healthcare providers in managing BBVs?
Medigold Health supply a range of rapid, reliable BBV test kits for Hepatitis B Surface Antigen, Hepatitis C and HIV, for use in a variety of healthcare settings, including primary care, hospitals, prisons, sexual health clinics, drug treatment centres and health outreach programmes.
But we do more than supply tests – we’re a partner in care. Our team provides training, guidance and ongoing support to help healthcare professionals use these tests effectively and confidently. We assist with:
- Training on correct testing procedures
- Interpreting results and ensuring appropriate follow-up
- Integrating rapid testing smoothly into clinical pathways
Our aim is simple: to help healthcare teams diagnose sooner, act faster, and improve patient outcomes through innovation, support and expertise.
What are the benefits of rapid BBV testing for patients and healthcare providers?
For patients, rapid BBV testing offers reassurance, faster diagnosis, and early access to treatment that can change – or even save – lives. For healthcare providers, it offers efficiency, accuracy and reliability, supporting them to deliver the best possible care while meeting public health objectives.
Ultimately, rapid testing benefits everyone – individuals, healthcare systems and society as a whole – by reducing transmission, improving outcomes, and promoting a more open, informed approach to health.
How can workplaces support those effected by blood borne viruses?
It’s important to remember that anyone can be affected by a blood-borne virus. However, there remains a lot of stigma, and it can therefore be difficult for individuals to disclose this personal information to an employer. Creating an environment where employees feel safe, informed and supported can make a real difference.
Employers can make a positive impact by:
- Raising awareness through wellbeing campaigns that educate employees about BBVs, how they are transmitted, and the importance of regular testing.
- Signposting to trusted testing services, such as local clinics or national screening programmes, so people know where to turn if they have concerns.
- Providing training for managers and HR teams in how to handle conversations sensitively and ensure confidentiality.
- Embedding inclusivity into workplace health policies, ensuring those affected by BBVs receive fair treatment, reasonable adjustments and continued access to support.
Partner with us and join the fight against HIV
This World AIDS Day, Medigold Health is proud to stand alongside healthcare professionals across the UK in raising awareness of HIV and BBVs.
Our instant BBV tests deliver results in just 15 minutes, with no need for lab processing or long waits, so you can act quickly and confidently.
If your organisation is looking to implement rapid BBV testing, get in touch with us today.
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