Transmission of HIV 'can be eliminated in a decade'

Transmission of HIV in Scotland can be eliminated in the next decade, according to plans being drawn up by ministers.

The Scottish Government is announcing a new scheme to tackle the virus to mark World Aids Day.

It includes free condom provision, widening access to medication which prevents HIV, increasing testing capacity and introducing measures to prevent people sharing needles.

A new online service which allows people to request virus tests at home has also been handed £377,000.

Last year there were 5617 people in Scotland diagnosed and living with HIV.

Public health minister Joe FitzPatrick has commissioned plans to eliminate transmission of HIV in Scotland by 2030.

He said: “Scotland has made huge progress in detecting and treating HIV, and people with the virus are now able to live long, happy and healthy lives.

“Thanks to our leading sexual and reproductive health services, access to HIV specialist treatment and care is excellent.

“We are also one of the first countries in the world to have an HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis service, offering free preventative medication to those deemed at highest risk of acquiring HIV.

“I believe we can go further and that the goal of eliminating HIV transmission is now in sight.”