Londoners set record for most HIV tests on World AIDS Day
Londoners set a new world record on World AIDS Day 2011 for the most HIV tests administered in 8 hours.
467 tests were taken in the joint record attempt by 56 Dean Street clinic and G-A-Y, at the G-A-Y Bar on Old Compton Street.
Nearly £13,000 was raised through the attempt for the Elton John AIDS Foundation, with a donation of £10,000 from G-A-Y and £2,823 given by people attending the event.
Dr Alan McOwan, Lead Consultant at 56 Dean Street said: “By organising this event, 56 Dean Street and G-A-Y have taken a proactive stance in the battle against HIV.
“World AIDS Day provided us with a fantastic platform to build on the message of awareness and education. This has been a truly worthwhile event and I would like to thank all involved for making the day so successful.”
The rapid HIV test used during the event can give a result within 60 seconds. It checks for the immune system’s reaction in a small amount of blood drawn by “pricking” the fingertip.
It can detect most infections 6 weeks after exposure to HIV.
