Prince Harry broadcasts himself taking a HIV test live
By Josh Lee
Prince Harry has taken an HIV test live on social media to encourage others to get tested and to show “show how easy it is to get tested for HIV”, according to the Facebook post.
The Terrence Higgins Trust called it a ‘groundbreaking moment in the fight against HIV’.
The 31 year old was tested at Guy’s and St. Thomas’ Hospital in London, and was live-streamed on the Royal Family’s Facebook page. The event was announced just minutes before he took the test.
The Prince took a rapid HIV test, which detects the presence of HIV antibodies in the blood. At the start of the visit, the healthcare worker explained to the Prince that a result will be available within around one minute of taking the test.
Prince Harry Visiting a HIV hospital that was supported by his mother Diana.
“We call it either a reactive or non-reactive result”, he said to the Prince. “If it was reactive it would be sent to the lab to confirm the result”.
Harry admitted that he was “nervous” before taking the test, which the healthcare worker described as normal, saying there’s a fear of “not knowing”.
The test involved pricking the Prince’s finger and taking a swab. A minute later, the test revealed a negative result.
“It is amazing how quick it is,” the 31-year-old said.
“So whether you’re a man, woman, gay, straight, black or white — even ginger — why wouldn’t you come and have a test?”
The healthcare worker then explained that a reactive result would have resulted in a blood test to confirm the diagnosis.
[fbvideo link=”https://www.facebook.com/TheBritishMonarchy/videos/1171588732862955/” width=”500″ height=”400″ onlyvideo=”1″]
Ian Green, Chief Executive of Terrence Higgins Trust, said: ‘Prince Harry’s decision to take an HIV test, live on social media, is a groundbreaking moment in the fight against HIV.
‘Not only does it show His Royal Highness’s genuine and personal commitment to tackling the HIV epidemic, it will amplify a message to millions all over the world: testing for HIV is easy, quick and nothing to be feared.
‘We have a real opportunity to end HIV transmissions in the UK, but it starts with each person knowing their HIV status. Too many people are either put off testing by the stigma that still surrounds HIV, or simply do not think HIV is an issue anymore.
Today, Prince Harry has got people talking about HIV again and has normalised HIV testing to a global audience. In doing so, he could inspire a generation to take control of their sexual health”.
Last month, Prince Harry’s brother and heir to the throne HRH Prince William spoke to Attitude Magazine about combating homophobic bullying.
Find out more about HIV testing here.