The Department of Health will be offering a day of free confidential HIV testing in the coming weeks as part of HIV Awareness Month.

Last year 11 people died in Bermuda of HIV/Aids, while 24 people were diagnosed as carrying the virus.

While that figure is a drop from the previous year, the number of people diagnosed with sexually transmitted infections rose to more than 500.

Health Minister Walter Roban said that more worrying than the number of diagnosed cases was the number of people who might not know they have HIV.

"Currently in our community there are more than 290 people known to be living with HIV," he said.

"The many advances in HIV treatment and support mean that people living with HIV can remain healthy for a longer time.

"But this can only happen if they are diagnosed early, before the infection wreaks havoc on their immune systems, resulting in Aids."

June has been designated HIV Awareness month. This year the Department of Health has chosen the theme: Sexual Health: Have the Conversation.

Mr. Roban said it was intended to encourage discussion about sexual behaviour and conversations with health care professionals.

"We are all potentially at risk. Men and women, young and old, advantaged and disadvantaged. Therefore, we must all have the conversation."

On June 28, the department will offer free testing at the Hamilton Health Centre between 8.30 a.m. and 3.30 p.m.

It will also be delivering "sexual health packets" to physicians in the community to encourage conversation between doctors and patients about the issue.

"Early detection and treatment of HIV is important to those affected and to the entire community," Mr. Roban said.

"Diagnosing HIV helps prevent its spread and allow affected individuals to better maintain their health and productivity in society.

"I want to encourage everyone in Bermuda to make this the year that you have the conversation."