In partnership with Cumbria Sexual Health Services, Staveley Pharmacy near Kendal in Cumbria offer these two important tests. Look after your sexual health by getting regular tests if you think you are at risk.
The HIV Rapid test also checks for Syphilis. The test is a free and confidential NHS service and is available for people aged 18yrs and over. The rapid test allows us to provide you with results within minutes.
Please contact the pharmacy or book in to arrange a test in complete confidence.
HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is a viral infection. HIV attacks the body’s immune system making a person more vulnerable to other infections or diseases.
Without treatment, HIV can eventually lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). This is where the immune system has become so badly damaged that patients pick up other infections that can eventually lead to their death. Without medication, the life expectancy for someone with AIDS is about three years.
You can learn more about HIV and AIDS on the NHS website.
There is currently no cure for HIV but effective treatments are available. The sooner you start medication after infection, the more effective the treatment is. So, it’s important to get a regular test if you lead a risky lifestyle.
Syphilis is a bacterial infection that’s caught by having sex with someone who’s infected. Unlike HIV, syphilis can be cured using a short course of antibiotics.
Syphilis does not always present any symptoms so you may have it without knowing. You can read more about syphilis on the NHS website.
If you have unprotected sex with casual partners or have recently changed your sexual partner, you may be at higher risk of infection.
HIV infections are higher across Africa than they are in the UK. So the UK government encourages African men and women to get a test for HIV. You are also at higher risk of HIV if you share drug injection equipment such as syringes.
“Thank you Staveley Pharmacy for the way in which you dealt with my dad’s prescription following our call to NHS111. It was very much appreciated.”
“Didn’t have my prescription in stock due to suppliers being out of stock, so rang round other chemists in the area. When no luck the owner rang GP to get the prescription changed for a similar alternative. Stayed open late whilst waiting for GP to get back in touch. Incredible service and very much appreciated thank you.”
“Prompt and organised team, a huge and valuable range of services, from medication to health checks, and equipment. Staveley Pharmacy is most valued by the District nursing team.”
