Matt Hancock takes HIV test and urges others to follow suit

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has urged people to take an HIV test, by tweeting a picture of himself undergoing the procedure.

Mr Hancock said he had the "quick, easy and pain-free" finger prick to coincide with HIV Test Week.

He was praised by HIV charity Terence Higgins Trust for showing "leadership" as efforts continue to normalise testing for the virus.

Mr Hancock tweeted: "Today I took the quick, easy and pain-free test for #HIVTestWeek. Whatever you do this HIV Test Week, make sure you get tested & know your status. @HIVPreventionEn."

Debbie Laycock, head of policy at the trust, said: "It's hugely significant to have this kind of leadership from the Secretary of State in showing how quick and easy it is to test for HIV to mark National HIV Testing Week.

"This is exactly the kind of role modelling we need as we work towards fully normalising HIV testing in this country."

Mr Hancock followed in the footsteps of the Duke of Sussex, who took a public HIV test alongside Rihanna on World Aids Day in 2016.

Harry also spoke out to mark the beginning of National HIV Testing Week, which began on Saturday.

In a video message he called for HIV testing to be seen as "completely normal and accessible", adding that people should not feel ashamed or embarrassed about taking a test.

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