Rhiannon Ingle
Hollyoaks actor Peter McPherson has opened up about his HIV diagnosis in an emotional new interview.
The actor, who played Gareth on the beloved Channel 4 soap, broke down when discussing the diagnosis during an interview with Virgin Radio Pride.
Peter, who was joined in the studio by his husband David Allwood, began by explaining that he has now been HIV positive for more than 10 years.
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HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that damages the cells in your immune system and weakens your ability to fight everyday infections and disease.
The NHS explains that there's currently no cure for HIV, but there are very effective drug treatments that enable most people with the virus to live a long and healthy life.
With an early diagnosis and effective treatments, most people with HIV will not develop any AIDS-related illnesses and will live a near-normal lifespan.
Recalling the moment he told David for the first time back in 2013, the TV star explained: "We were in Singapore at the time and, because I was always told it’s really important when you have a sexual partner that you tell them…"
He continued: "When I was first diagnosed there was two camps, there was people on treatment straight away and then there was delayed treatment because they didn’t know how it would affect in the long term.
"So, I was delayed but, yeah, I told you straight away and I was gobsmacked by David because he knew his stuff and he wasn’t phased by it and that just put me at ease straight away."
Peter added: "I’ve had messages, people saying things like, 'Such a shame you spoilt yourself, you’ve ruined yourself'.
"Luckily I’m quite strong-willed and in a good place mentally, but that can be very damaging to someone who’s not."
The NHS adds: "If you're living with HIV, taking effective HIV treatment and being undetectable significantly reduces your risk of passing HIV on to others.
"Without treatment, the immune system will become severely damaged, and life-threatening illnesses such as cancer and severe infections can occur.
"If you're planning on getting pregnant, it's important to talk to a GP. Although rare, it's possible to transmit HIV to your baby."
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact the Terrence Higgins Trust on 0808 802 1221 for support, advice and information. The line is open 10am to 6pm Monday to Friday. Or email them at [email protected]_.