November Public Health Messages
World Aids Day – 1st December 2023
World AIDS Day is a global movement to unite people in the fight against HIV and AIDS. Since 1988, communities have stood together on World AIDS Day to show strength and solidarity against HIV stigma and to remember lives lost.
Do you know the four sure ways to prevent HIV?
London’s ‘Be Sure, Know the Four’ HIV prevention campaign is back to remind Londoners of the four sure ways to prevent HIV – testing, condoms, PrEP, and being Undetectable (also known as U=U).
The campaign by Do It London raises awareness of combination prevention to promote that HIV is preventable, that an HIV diagnosis is treatable, and that treatment acts as prevention.
In 2021, 33% of all new HIV diagnoses were London residents and 47% of all new diagnoses in London were in gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM). The good news is that we are seeing the number of new diagnoses of HIV declining year on year. However, the high rates of HIV seen in London compared to other areas of England is a reminder of the importance of combination prevention. Find out more about the campaign and also where and how to get tested.
Attached are flyers with more information and local support available for those living with or affected by HIV.
Free blood pressure checks for over 40’s
Everyone over 40 can now benefit from a free blood pressure check and personalised blood pressure advice at their local pharmacy. High blood pressure can increase the risk of developing serious health problems like heart attacks and strokes if not treated. Having this quick test is the only way for people to find out what their blood pressure is – and it could save a life. Read more.
Cold weather
As the weather gets colder, risk of winter infections increases, it can become harder to keep our homes warm and some people can be at risk of harm if they get cold. Three key things to do ahead of cold weather:
Reduce infection risk - Get your COVID-19 and flu vaccines if you’re eligible (more information is available online - NHS website, local vaccine clinic information)
Make sure you can stay warm – Make sure your heating is working, block out any draughts and check if your eligible for financial support to help with fuel bills (more information on Islington website).
Check-in with those at higher risk in the cold – Some people, such as older adults and those with health conditions, are at greater risk during cold weather. If there’s someone you know who might be at risk, check in to see if they have a plan for cold weather (like stocking up on food and medicine before it gets too cold and having numbers to call if they need help).
You can find out more about winter wellness on the NHS website and the Council website.