A number of cases of heterosexually acquired HIV have been confirmed recently in the St Ives area of Cornwall.

Lisa Power, Head of Policy at Terrence Higgins Trust said:

“It’s always a concern when we hear about new cases of transmission of HIV. However, most people in Cornwall are at far more risk of contracting Chlamydia or Gonorrhoea if they’ve had unprotected sex. We urge people not to panic. If anyone is concerned they’ve risked their sexual health in any way they should call THT Direct on 0845 12 21 200 where our trained staff will help them assess their risk.  Alternatively West Cornwall Primary Care Trust have set up a dedicated helpline number which is 0845 850 9850.”

Ends

Notes to Editors

• During sex between a man with HIV and an uninfected woman, the chance of transmission is around 1 in 1000
• The chance of transmission between a woman with HIV and an uninfected man is about 1 in 2000
• People are most highly infectious in the weeks following their own infection. Then the level of the virus in their body declines and the risk reduces accordingly.