MP urges fans travelling to World Cup to keep safe from HIV

Play Safe

Karen Lumley, MP for Redditch County, urged constituents travelling to South Africa for the World Cup not to expose themselves to HIV, whatever the score.

South Africa has one of the highest rates of HIV in the world, with roughly one in five adults infected.
HIV is transmitted through unprotected sex and there are concerns that fans, high on beer and atmosphere, may take risks they could regret.

Speaking at an event in Parliament to highlight the importance of staying safe, Karen Lumley MP said: “I wish anyone from Redditch County who is travelling to South Africa a fantastic time. It’s an amazing country and it will be the trip of a lifetime. But I urge them not to take risks with their health, because there is no cure for HIV.”

HIV is not spread through casual contact, such as shaking hands or sharing food, so most visitors will have no cause for concern.

Today’s event marked the launch of a website www.keepacleansheet.co.uk  designed especially to inform fans about HIV and other sexually transmitted infections during the World Cup. The initiative was the brain-child of a cross party group of MPs, HIVsport and Durex, and has the support of the Foreign Office and the Terrence Higgins Trust.

New Foreign Office Minister Henry Bellingham said: “We are working closely with South Africa to ensure that all our travelling fans can enjoy their time in the country and stay as safe as possible. Our message is enjoy yourself but don’t put yourself at risk.”

Fans at home could also be at risk. Recent research for the sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust found that nearly one in ten 18-34 year-olds in the UK drink so much while watching sporting events, in person or on TV, that they can’t remember what they did afterwards.

Director of HIVsport, Stephen Bitti advises fans at home and abroad to “have fun, stay safe, and make sure STIs are not part of your World Cup experience.”