HIV/AIDS

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is the virus that causes AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). This virus attacks the immune system, which is the body’s defence against disease. In Australia, there have been approximately 25,340 people diagnosed with HIV since 1987. Activities such as sex without a condom and sharing injecting equipment may put you at risk of contracting HIV.

There is currently no cure for HIV, however there are a range of effective treatments available in Australia to delay the progression of HIV to AIDS.

North Coast Area Health Service provides a range of HIV services to the community. Services provide include:
• HIV education and prevention
• HIV testing
• HIV treatment and management
• HIV Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)- A course of medication that can stop you from becoming HIV positive after you have been exposed to the virus. You need to commence treatment within 72 hours of exposure. 1800 PEP NOW (1800 737 669) for more information.

For more information on these clinics please contact your local service from the list below:

Tweed Heads
Lvl1, 145 Wharf Street, Tweed Heads
Ph: (07) 5506 6850

Lismore (SHAIDS)
4 Shepherd Lane, Lismore
Ph: (02) 6620 2980

Coffs Harbour (Clinic 916)
345 Pacific Hwy, Coffs Harbour
(02) 6656 7865

Port Macquarie
Morton Street, Port Macquarie
(02) 6588 2750 or 0418 207 939

All services are free and confidential.
Medicare cards are not required

For more information call the HIV information line on 1800 451 600

Click here to access relevant documents, factsheets and websites about HIV/AIDS