BBVs

BBVs or blood-borne viruses are viruses that are transmitted via blood but also through other bodily fluids. In relation to sexual health HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C are the most common infections and they vary in terms of their transmission, symptoms and treatment.

If you are worried that you are or have been at risk of getting a BBV and would like to make an appointment at any one of our clinics, you can book some clinics online or call 0300 303 0251 (line open: Mon – Thurs: 8am–4:45pm and Fri: 8am–3:45pm).

If you think you have been exposed to HIV, for example having unprotected sex with someone who may be HIV positive, then you can reduce your risk of becoming infected by taking Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) which is a short course of tablets.

PEP can be taken up to 72 hours (3 days) after sexual exposure but is more likely to be effective within 24 hours (1 day), so it’s important to act very quickly. You can access PEP by phoning the appointment line on 0300 303 0251. Please contact Accident and Emergency Services when the appointment line and clinics are closed.

You can also reduce the risk of HIV by taking Pre-Prophylaxis (PrEP) which is taken before sex. PrEP is available in Scotland. For more information about PrEP please visit: What is HIV PrEP | NHS inform. To find out how to access PrEP in Lanarkshire, phone 0300 303 0251.

You can also be tested by your GP or can order a home STI testing kit, which are bookable online. More information about testing can be found here: How to Get Tested.

In addition, the main HIV treatment clinic in Lanarkshire is at the Lanarkshire HIV, AIDS & Hepatitis Service (LHAHS), Monklands Hospital. The clinic is provided by specialist doctors and nurses who are trained in HIV management.

Once someone is tested and diagnosed positive with Hepatitis B, C or HIV, they will be referred to specialist treatment services to be assessed for treatment.

Hairmyres Hepatitis Service

Gastro Nurse Office – Ward 17
Hairmyres Hospital
Eaglesham Road
East Kilbride, G75 8RG
Tel: 01355 584049 (answer machine)

Monklands BBV Service (Hepatitis and HIV Clinic)

Ward 2 reception
Monklands Hospital
Monkscourt Avenue
Airdrie, ML6 0JS
Tel: 01698 752444 or 01698 752445