EastEnders viewers were shocked to learn last week that Sharon's little brother, Zack Hudson, will discover he has contracted HIV in an upcoming storyline.
When an old friend arrives in Albert Square, Zack is given the news that he should get himself tested, because his friend recently tested positive for the virus.
Over time Zack will be given the news that he has also has contracted the virus, and viewers will go on a journey with the character as he adjusts to living with HIV.
Executive producer Chris Clenshaw explained the soap is working closely with The Terrence Higgins Trust for the storyline that will likely resonate with many viewers.
"EastEnders has never shied away from covering sensitive issues and Zack’s story is one of these," Chris said.
"There are still so many myths and disinformation surrounding HIV, so working closely with Terrence Higgins Trust has enabled us to really understand what it is like for those that are diagnosed with HIV and we hope that this storyline will bring more awareness of HIV and what it is like to live with the virus in 2023."
EastEnders was one of the first soaps to tackle the subject thirty years ago when Mark Fowler was diagnosed with the disease.
Ian Green, of the Terrence Higgins Trust, said: "It's been incredible to work with EastEnders on Zack’s story to show people across the UK that an HIV diagnosis doesn't have to stop you from living life to the fullest.
"Over 30 years on from Mark's storyline and sadly myths about HIV are still held by far too many people. The incredible progress we've made around HIV means people on effective HIV treatment can’t pass on the virus and can have a normal lifespan. We hope that Zack’s storyline will educate viewers on the reality of HIV in 2023 and spark conversations in living rooms across the UK.”
Zack has recently discovered he is about to become a father after a one-night-stand with Whitney Dean, leading to another difficult subject the soap will tackle.
For more information and support visit The Terrence Higgins Trust website.
EastEnders airs weeknights on BBC One.
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