The New Zealand AIDS Foundation is working against a potential post-disaster surge in STIs and HIV amongst gay and bisexual men in Christchurch, by providing free testing and counselling services in the quake-hit city. NZAF Executive Director Shaun Robinson says many people are familiar with the phenomena of post-disaster baby booms, but not many people are aware of the other implications of post-disaster sex such as the potential surge in STIs or HIV among high risk groups. "We're really focussed on meeting the needs of the gay communities in Christchurch because overlooking the health needs of our sexual and gender minority groups poses serious risks," he says. Robinson says post-earthquake help provided by Relationship Services and other groups is extremely valuable to Christchurch but adds: "Some residents, like gay and bisexual men, will need extra services like HIV testing or counselling that’s specifically for them - and that's where we can help". The NZAF South/Te Toka office has moved to temporary premises in St Alban's where it provides a free, anonymous FASTest for HIV, syphilis and Hepatitis C that gives results in ten minutes. The tests are carried out by staff who are fully qualified and accredited by the NZ Association of Counsellors or NZ Association of Psychotherapists. Appointments for counselling or testing can be made by contacting NZAF South/Te Toka at 03 379 1953, contact.tetoka@nzaf.org.nz or www.nzaf.org.nz. Condoms and lube are available at no cost at distribution points around Christchurch. Information on where to find free condoms and an order form can be found at www.condoms.getiton.co.nz or through facebook at www.facebook.com/getiton.nz.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Tuesday, 2nd August 2011 - 3:15pm