Please call 01382 425542 to make an appointment Monday – Friday between 9 am and 12 noon.
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is an infection that can weaken your immune system, meaning you’re more likely to become unwell with other harmful infections and some cancers. Anyone can get HIV, regardless of whether they are gay or straight or where they come from.The most common way HIV is transmitted in the UK is through sex without a condom but it can also be transmitted through sharing drug injecting equipment.
There are lots of ways to protect you from HIV but the way that works for everyone is to always use condoms for vaginal and anal sex. Lubricants are really important to use with condoms if you have anal sex. If you inject drugs then always use your own equipment and don’t share any works. Getting tested for HIV regularly will ensure that if you do pick it up, you’ll know about it as soon as possible and you can keep yourself and others well.
People who may be at higher risk for getting HIV can take Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). This is medication that people can take to protect them against HIV. If you would like to discuss or start PrEP contact the sexual health service on 01382 425542 (Monday – Friday between 9 am and 5 pm).
If you have had sex and are worried that you have been exposed to HIV in the past 72 hours then you should consider Post-exposure prophylaxis. This is medication that you take for 4 weeks after sex to prevent HIV after you have been exposed to it.
HIV is completely treatable and allows people living with the infection to stay well and to lead healthy lives. People who are on treatment and have an undetectable viral load cannot pass the virus on to others. Undetectable equals Untransmissible (U=U). If your sexual partner has HIV and has an undetectable viral load, then they will not pass HIV on to you.
Referrals and queries to: Tay.arvservice@nhs.scot
For appointments call: 01382 443153 or email: Tay.arvservice@nhs.scot
HIV Nurse Specialists: 07768058301 or email: Tay.arvservice@nhs.scot
The HIV Specialist Service is made up of medical staff, nursing staff, pharmacists and a service & care co-ordinator. The team provide both in-patient and out-patient care for all aspects of HIV management The service is based at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee but clinics are held at locations throughout Tayside and the Specialist Nurses provide a community service if required.
Hepatitis B is a virus carried in the blood and body fluids that damages the liver and is the most widespread form of hepatitis worldwide.
Hepatitis C is a virus carried in the blood which infects the liver, causing inflammation (swelling and tenderness), and can lead to liver cancer.
Harm reduction is a set of practical strategies aimed at reducing harm from drug use, particularly injecting drug use.
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