In July 2016, Prince Harry made history as the first public figure to ever get an HIV test live on the internet. Then five months later, he got another HIV test with Rihanna in observance of World AIDS Day.
Today, he’s encouraging everyone everywhere to get tested. This is National HIV Testing Week in the United Kingdom.
The 34-year-old royal (and soon-to-be-father)’s mother Princess Diana was an advocate for AIDS and HIV awareness. Harry has continued her legacy.
The most recent statistics released by the Joint United Nations Program UNAIDS say 36.9 million people globally are living with HIV and 25 percent of those infected are unaware of their status.
On the bright side, new diagnoses are declining in the U.K., with a 28% drop in the past two years.
In the new PSA, Harry says stigma is to blame for many people not getting a “simple, quick and easy test.”
"Just as much as you protect yourself at this time of year from illnesses and viruses like cold and flu, you can also protect your health by taking an HIV test," Harry says.
"Taking an HIV test is something to be proud of—not something to be ashamed or embarrassed about.”
"You don't even have to go to a clinic to find out your status,” he continues. “During National HIV Testing Week, charities like Terrence Higgins Trust will be out and about in your local communities in places like churches, shopping centers and football matches—or you can test yourself in the privacy of your own home.”
"And if you do get a positive result, you can get the treatment to live a healthy, happy life, and to ensure that you don't pass on the virus. It's simple. By getting tested, you are helping stop the HIV epidemic in its tracks. You are helping to save lives. This is such a pivotal time in the fight against HIV. If we can continue to make HIV testing the norm and empower young people to take control of their sexual health, we can be the generation to finally bring an end to HIV."
Watch the PSA below.
h/t: Harper’s Bazaar