HIV detection drive in A&E 'life-changing'

Almost 200 people have been diagnosed with HIV or hepatitis since local A&E departments introduced routine screening.

About 180 people who attended A&E have been diagnosed with blood-borne viruses (BBVs), including HIV, since the opt-out testing initiative began at Bristol Royal Infirmary (BRI), Southmead Hospital, and Weston General Hospital.

Professor Tim Whittlestone, Bristol NHS group chief medical and innovation officer, said the screening is making a "life-changing difference" to people living with BBVs who do not experience any symptoms.

Since launching in 2024, about 72,000 people aged 16 or over who needed a blood test in A&E were also screened for BBVs.

The scheme aims to identify people living with undiagnosed BBVs including hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV, and connect them with specialist care.

HIV has very few symptoms but can lead to a weakened immune system if left untreated.

Meanwhile, viral hepatitis can cause liver failure or liver cancer, though both can be prevented by early antiviral treatment.

Funded by NHS England, the scheme has tested 34,000 patients at Southmead Hospital since its introduction, 25,000 at the BRI and 12,000 at Weston General.

One patient, who asked to remain anonymous, was admitted to Weston General in October 2025 and tested positive for Hepatitis B.

"I'm really grateful to the clinicians for connecting me with the specialist clinic and helping ensure I can live a good quality of life despite my diagnosis," they said.

Professor Whittlestone said testing 72,000 people was a big achievement that makes "a real difference to the population we serve".

"A huge thanks to all our colleagues whose hard work made it possible," he added.

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