THE number of HIV cases in Kirklees has almost doubled over the past three years.

The Brunswick Centre, a sexual health and HIV registered charity working across Kirklees and Calderdale, knows of 213 people living locally with the virus.

Today is World Aids Day and the total represents a staggering 92% increase in HIV cases in Kirklees and an increase of 65% for Calderdale since 2002.

John McKernaghan, manager at The Brunswick Centre, said: "There are many reasons for the increase in HIV cases locally.

"Many people don't see HIV as an issue for them. This leaves them vulnerable to infection as they are in all likelihood less likely to practise safer sex."

Mr McKernaghan also believes that if the education system addressed issues of sexual health in gay males it could reduce the number of people contracting the virus.

He adds: "Because of the prevalence of HIV among gay male communities and the fact that the education system does not address the health and sexual health needs of young gay men, they are more vulnerable to HIV infection."

However, Mr McKernaghan remains confident that a lot is being done in this area to help with this growing concern.

"Locally there is excellent work

going on in many settings, such as the work at Huddersfield Technical College, which has a dedicated sexual health nurse.

"The Brunswick Centre does a lot of community work with local communities to improve sexual health and prevent HIV infection.

"We also work with people who are HIV positive to ensure they remain in good physical and mental health and that the stigma and discrimination associated with HIV is reduced."

The Brunswick Centre provides services such as advocacy, one-to-one support, drop-ins, group work, respite, hardship grants, and information and resources.

It also works with other agencies at a strategic level to improve the wellbeing of people with HIV and to contribute to the improved sexual health of local people across Kirklees and Calderdale.

Mr McKernaghan said: "It is a continuing battle to reduce incidence of HIV infection and to improve the sexual health of local communities.

"All of us have a duty to do this by working together.

"This includes the local media, who have a duty to report factual information that does not add to any hysteria over HIV in particular."