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From March 15, all patients over the age of 16 that have a blood test during a visit to our emergency department will also be tested for the following three viruses:
- HIV
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
Early diagnosis of blood borne viruses means people can access the treatment they need sooner than otherwise and allows them to lead healthier lives in the long term.
Here is some information about each of the three viruses that we will be testing for:
HIV
HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. Immunodeficiency refers to the weakening of the immune system by the virus. HIV can be causing damage silently for many years and you may have no signs or symptoms.
The treatment for HIV is usually in the form of tablets, which are free in the NHS. The treatment is very effective as it stops the virus from replicating in your body. It reduces the amount of HIV virus in the blood to undetectable levels, meaning you cannot pass it on and can expect to live a normal lifespan.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B affects your liver. Most adults that contract hepatitis B recover fully, but if contracted as a child, the risk of long-term infection is higher.
Treatment is very effective and is usually in the form of tablets. Some people do not need treatment for the virus as it may not be causing damage to the liver, however they will need regular check-ups. An important step is to vaccinate those that live with you and these vaccines can be provided free of charge by your GP.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C affects your liver and can lead to serious liver problems if not treated. You can have hepatitis C for many years and not notice any symptoms, but this does not mean it isn’t affecting your liver.
Hepatitis C is curable. Treatment is a course of tablets, taken for 8-12 weeks. You are unlikely to experience side-effects from the treatment.
Getting your results
Results usually take two to three days to be processed, meaning that you will not receive these results on the day that you attend the emergency department. If your test results are negative for HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C, you will not hear from us.
If any of your results are positive, you will be contacted by telephone or post and asked to attend an appointment at a specific clinic. You will be given a choice on where the clinic will be. Further information and support will be available when you attend the appointment.
If you do not wish to be tested for these viruses, please let a member of staff know. This will not in any way affect the care you receive from us.
Contact
If you would like more information, please e-mail swbh.bbvtesting@nhs.net
Further information
The links below can provide more information about these viruses:
HIV and AIDS – NHS
Terrence Higgins Trust
The Hepatitis C Trust | Hep C charity
Hepatitis B – British Liver Trust
For more information about disabled access for this service