People can get HIV tested for free on a clinic bus this week.

This week is national HIV testing week and Redbridge Council is pushing for everyone to be aware of their own HIV status.

The council will be running a clinic bus through the borough from November 19 for five days.

The mobile clinic will allow people to get fast, confidential HIV tests, a simple finger prick, which take less than 60 seconds.

Results from the mobile bus clinic’s finger prick tests are available within 10 minutes and if someone is found to be HIV positive, they are then immediately referred to hospitals in the area to begin treatment within 24 hours.

Redbridge has a high number of people diagnosed at the later stages of the infection and the aim of the national campaign, with the strapline “Give HIV the finger,” is to reduce the rate of undiagnosed people and those who are diagnosed late.

The campaign is also encouraging regular testing among the most affected population groups.

People can only be certain they have HIV by getting tested. Early testing ensures quicker treatment, early support and preventing the infection being passed to others.

Those diagnosed early will also have a much better chance of living longer.

Cllr Mark Santos, cabinet member for health whose day job involves working for a HIV charity, said: “Knowing your HIV status could literally save your life. People who are HIV positive and start taking medication can live as long as someone of a similar age and background.

“The evidence is also clear that if HIV is undetectable it is un-transmittable. If you are HIV positive, on treatment and have a suppressed viral load you cannot pass HIV on to your sexual partners.

“It is really important to know your HIV status. We want to challenge stigma as stigma kills, it is often a barrier that stops people from going and getting tested.”

The cabinet member sees the campaign as “a real opportunity” to raise awareness of how easy it is to get a test done.

There is evidence that if someone who is HIV positive is diagnosed late, they are ten times more likely to die within the year of diagnosis.

On the other hand, Public Health England has found that early diagnosis can allow a HIV positive person to live as long as someone of a similar age and background living without HIV.

You can track the bus here or if you would like to confirm where the bus is, you can call 02080690100.

For other ways to get free and confidential HIV testing and advice book an appointment at Barking Hospital by calling 020 8924 6571 or 020 8924 6547.

For further information visit the council's website.