Conchita Wurst has revealed that he is HIV positive, saying that he is speaking about it now as an ex-boyfriend threatened to make the information public.

Speaking on Instagram, Wurst said that he will not give anyone the right to frighten him or affect his life.

“I have been HIV-positive for many years. this is actually irrelevant to the public, but an ex-boyfriend is threatening to go public with this private information, and I will not give anyone the right to frighten me or affect my life.”

In an English statement, he added: “Since I received the diagnosis, I have been in medical treatment, and for many years without interruption I have been below the detection limit, which means I am unable to transmit the virus.

“Until now, I did not want to go public with this information for a number of reasons, only two of which I’ll mention: first and foremost my family, who know everything and have been supporting me since day one. I would have gladly spared them the attention connected to the HIV-status of their son, grandson and brother.

“Likewise, my friends have been aware of this for quite some time and are dealing with it with an impartiality, that I would wish everyone concerned.

“Secondly, it is information that, in my opinion, is almost exclusively relevant to those with whom sexual contact would be an option.”

He added that he hoped her decision to go public helped “lessen the stigmatisation of people who have become infected with HIV through their own behaviour or innocently through that of others,” and thanks all of his fans for their support.

“To my fans: the information about my HIV status may be new to you – my status is not! I’m well and well, and I’m stronger, more motivated and liberated than ever. Thank you for your support,” he ended the message.

AIDS Action Europe spoke about the stigma and discrimination faced by people living with HIV:

“The forced outing of Conchita shows that #PLHIV still face stigma and discrimination. Nobody should be outed against their will or be forced to reveal their status; it is the breach of one´s right to privacy. We like to express our support & appreciation to Conchitas’ courage.”