EastEnders’ Jack Hudson has had to get tested for HIV throughout his history

EastEnder spoilers to follow.

EastendersJack Hudson says he will be tested for HIV next week as his story continues.

The BBC’s Soap explores his topical HIV story starring Zack, which began last week with his meeting with his old friend Brett.

Zack’s life is turned upside down by the news that Brett has HIV, and he’s shared needles with him while injecting steroids in the past.

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Viewers also learn that Zack is attuned to his father’s ideas after learning that Whitney Dean is expecting his child. Zack was initially keen to stand up to Whitney, but Zack’s uproar pushed Whitney away and disappointed his friends.

Jack begins to face the situation in the next scene as he continues to let the people closest to him know what’s really going on.

BBC

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Zach prepares for his East taste test in Walford, determined to prove himself to Ravi and land a job as head chef.

Unfortunately, the night takes a turn when Sookie finds out Zach has left Whitney and the baby to form his own mind.

Growing angered by Sookie’s sophistry and Whitney’s complaints, Zack breaks the glass. BBC

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A panicked Zach is overwhelmed and storms off, but later admits the inevitable.

Zach realizes he needs answers, so he gets tested for HIV.

Terrence Higgins, a major EastEnders charity and his trust, is working on Zach’s story.

BBC

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Ian Green of The Terrence Higgins Trust said:
“It’s been great to work on Zack’s story alongside our EastEnder take and show people across the UK that being diagnosed with HIV doesn’t stop them from living life to the fullest.

“At the height of his HIV epidemic in the 1990s, we worked with EastEnders his Mark Fowler to craft a story so that HIV would be accurately portrayed on screen. Mark was the first British mainstream television character to be diagnosed with HIV. His story has been seen by millions and helped change attitudes towards the virus in an era when fear and misinformation were rampant.

“More than 30 years after Mark’s story, unfortunately, many people still cling to myths about HIV. It means those affected cannot transmit the virus and can live normal lives.Zack’s story will enlighten viewers about the reality of HIV in 2023 and spark conversations in living rooms across the UK. Hope it inspires you. Eastenders airs Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One. The show is also streamed on BBC iPlayer.