The NZ AIDS Foundation has seen a significant increase in the demand for its HIV tests since the lifting of name suppression for Glenn Mills, an Auckland man charged with knowingly exposing people to HIV, but will not be making any details public. Mills, 40, has been remanded in custody on charges relating to six young men and a young woman. Several of the young men subsequently tested positive for HIV. "In comparison to the same period in 2008 there has been a significant increase in the demand for HIV testing and professional counselling services at NZAF regional centres, particularly at the Burnett Centre in Auckland, and the Āwhina Centre in Wellington, " says Simon Harger-Forde, Director HIV Prevention and Communications at the NZAF says. "This trend has been most noticeable in the last week.” Mills' identity was released just over a week ago. Harger-Forde says it is not appropriate for the NZAF to give details of the increase or the nature of the calls it has been receiving. "Out of respect for our clients and their right to confidentiality we will not release information about exactly how many people have had HIV tests or what the results of those tests are." he says. "The NZAF provides free counseling services with qualified counselors and psychotherapists and these services have been very well utilised during the last two weeks because many people are understandably distressed. Some people have accessed our services simply because the increased focus on HIV in the media has prompted them to get tested." The NZAF provides free, painless, fast and confidential HIV and syphilis testing and says anyone can call 09 309 5560 or email contact.burnett@nzaf.org.nz to make an appointment. HIV support agencies say the case before the courts is extremely rare. "The NZAF is aware that the majority of people living with HIV are very responsible when it comes to protecting themselves and their partners by using condoms and lube," says Harger-Forde. "HIV is an extremely virulent but easily preventable virus, which can only be spread through bodily fluids such as semen or blood. HIV is not airborne and can not be transmitted through skin to skin contact or kissing."
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Saturday, 27th June 2009 - 10:52pm