NEW MR. GAY SOUTH AFRICA GETS TESTED

The newly-crowned Mr. Gay South Africa 2011 Lance Weyer was tested for HIV on World AIDS Day on Thursday, with the aim of making a statement about the importance of HIV screening.

Weyer (24) was tested by the Eastern Cape Gay and Lesbian Association, which also provided counselling services, at the South African National World AIDS Day Commemoration Event in KwaZakhele in the Eastern Cape.

“I was tested today, and I believe we should all take the time to get tested as knowing your status is the first step in stopping the spread of this virus,” said Weyer.

It is generally acknowledged that HIV screening is important because the sooner one knows that one is HIV positive, the sooner treatment can start; resulting in more effective results and better health.

In a media statement marking World AIDS Day, Weyer noted that South Africa is one of only two countries in the world where the spread of the virus has stopped growing, but added that there is still much to do.

“World AIDS Day is an opportunity for you to learn the facts about HIV and put your knowledge into action,” he said.

“If you understand how HIV is transmitted, how it can be prevented, and the reality of living with HIV today – you can use this knowledge to take care of your own health and the health of others, and ensure you treat everyone living with HIV fairly, and with respect and understanding.”

Weyer won the Mr. Gay South Africa title in Johannesburg on 26 November.