Increase in HIV testing in community settings
11 February 2025
New figures show a significant increase in the number of people being tested for HIV in community settings, such as sexual health clinics and pharmacies.
In the year to March 2024, there were 1.1 million HIV tests carried out in community settings, an increase of 12% on the previous year. This is the highest number of tests ever recorded in England.
The increase in testing is thought to be due to a number of factors, including:
- Increased awareness of HIV and the benefits of early testing
- Improved access to testing services
- The introduction of new, more convenient testing methods
The increase in testing is particularly encouraging given that it is estimated that around 10,000 people in England are living with undiagnosed HIV. Early diagnosis and treatment of HIV is essential to prevent serious illness and to reduce the risk of transmission to others.
Dr Valerie Delpech, Head of HIV Surveillance at Public Health England, said:
“These figures are very encouraging and show that more people are getting tested for HIV than ever before. This is vital for reducing the number of undiagnosed HIV infections in England and for ensuring that people who are diagnosed with HIV can access early treatment.”
The Department of Health and Social Care is committed to increasing HIV testing and reducing the number of undiagnosed HIV infections in England. The department is working with a range of partners, including local authorities, the NHS and voluntary sector organisations, to improve access to testing services and to raise awareness of the importance of early testing.
Notes to editors
- The figures in this release are based on data from the Public Health England HIV in the United Kingdom report 2024.
- The report is available at: [link to report]
- For more information about HIV testing, visit the Public Health England website: [link to website]
Increase in HIV testing in community settings
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