Cork to get new mural to tackle 'outdated ideas' and stigma around living with HIV

Cork Sexual Health Centre has invited public to have their say on plans for the artwork at a consultation event later this month

Earlier this year, analysis of bloodwork from more than 1,000 people from the Cork region found HIV antibodies in 1.05% of samples — about three times the national average.

A new mural will be developed in Cork City to help tackle the stigma of living with HIV.

A consultation hearing will take place at the end of this month on plans for the HIV Wall of Positivity, which is being worked on by the Cork’s Sexual Health Centre, with the Ardú Street Art Project.

Similar projects have been done in Brussels, Barcelona and Paris.

“This piece of art aims to speak to people living with HIV, their allies and to the general public who may be holding onto outdated ideas around HIV. 

"For these reasons it is very important that we have input from a wide number of stakeholders,” said Fiona Finn, chief executive at the Sexual Health Centre.

Earlier this year, findings published in the Irish Journal of Medical Science, which analysed more than 6,000 serum samples from bloods tests ordered by GPs which were tested in eight hospital laboratories, revealed analysis of bloodwork from more than 1,000 people from the Cork region found HIV antibodies in 1.05% of samples — about three times the national average.

In August, the Sexual Health Centre’s annual report revealed it provided 860 rapid HIV tests last year, as well as 677 HIV support and counselling sessions.

The centre said the mural project was the latest in a series of innovations it has put in place around HIV — including being the first agency in Ireland to offer rapid HIV testing in non-clinical surroundings, and partnering with the Cork Local Drug and Alcohol Task Force on Ireland’s first mobile drugs, alcohol and sexual health mobile unit.

In a statement the centre said: “This vibrant artwork will challenge outdated perceptions and promote understanding of U=U [undetectable = untransmittable] — the message that people living with HIV on effective treatment can live long, healthy lives and pose no risk of transmission.” 

A consultation will take place on November 27 at 6pm at 18 South Mall about the project.

The centre said the session was open to all, “including individuals living with HIV, their friends, allies, professionals and anyone passionate about community art and inclusion”.

The Sexual Health Centre has been in existence for more than 30 years, providing sexual health education, advocacy and support services.

Further details are available here.