• Blood borne virus (BBV) opt-out testing programme launched at Royal Bolton Hospital
• Greater Manchester-wide initiative is helping to diagnose HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C
• Anyone aged 16+ receiving routine blood tests in the Emergency Department will be tested, unless they opt-out

A potentially life-saving blood borne virus (BBV) opt-out testing programme is being launched at Royal Bolton Hospital’s Emergency Department, as the programme is expanded across Greater Manchester.

The initiative is helping to diagnose HIV, Hepatitis B (HBV), and Hepatitis C (HCV) and make sure even more people are offered support and treatment, which can ultimately save lives.

From the week commencing Monday 10 March, anyone aged 16 and over who attends Royal Bolton’s Emergency Department and receives a routine blood test will also be tested for HIV, HBV, and HVC, unless they choose to opt out.

The approach is aiming to normalise testing, reduce stigma and ensure those who are unaware of their status receive timely care.

Dr Francis Andrews, Medical Director and Consultant in Emergency Medicine at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, said:

We are proud to be a part of this innovative testing programme, taking us one step closer to ending new transmissions of HIV in Bolton and across Greater Manchester by 2030.

“Routine testing for blood-borne viruses not only allows us to significantly increase detection and save lives by making sure people get the care and treatment they need, but it also normalises testing, reduces stigmas and helps us to tackle local health inequalities.

Since the programme launched in Greater Manchester in December 2021, over 300,000 people have been tested. More than 120 people have been newly diagnosed with HIV, 320 with HCV and 140 with HBV.

Gary, not his real name, from Manchester was diagnosed fifteen months ago following an opt-out HIV test. He said:

As frightening as it has been, I am glad I got the diagnosis, if I hadn’t, I wouldn’t have known and may have put other people at risk. Getting the test may have prevented further terror for me. I have received nothing but compassion and understanding since being diagnosed.

HIV and viral hepatitis can often go undetected for years, leading to severe health complications. Early diagnosis and treatment mean people can live long, healthy lives and prevent onward transmission.

Jane Pilkington, Director of Population Health at NHS Greater Manchester said:

Opt-out testing is saving lives. By identifying people with undiagnosed blood borne viruses, we can offer them treatment and support, reducing the risk of long-term health complications and further transmission. This programme is a crucial step towards eliminating new transmissions of HIV and viral hepatitis.

“Importantly, the programme normalises testing for blood borne viruses and helps to address stigma. The opt-out approach means we can expand testing to those who may not access it through other routes. This is key to addressing health inequalities relating to HIV and viral hepatitis, and ensuring everyone receives the care and support they need.

To find out more about the testing, read our Frequently Asked Questions and find links for support, please visit our website.