HIV/Aids

The importance of getting tested
The only way to know your HIV status for sure is to get tested. A person who is HIV positive may look and feel perfectly well, and be unaware that they are infected.

Viral tests
Viral tests are used to diagnose very early HIV infection. There are two types of test available to detect HIV itself, the PCR test and the p24 test.

What is the "window period?"
The window period is the period between the onset of HIV infection and the appearance of detectable antibodies to the virus.

Tests used to monitor HIV disease
Look at the following tests used to monitor HIV disease in South Africa:

HIV antibody tests
There are three possible HIV antibody tests: HIV ELISA tests, HIV rapid tests and saliva and urine tests.

HIV tests used in babies and young children
Testing young children under 18 months of age is a little more difficult than testing older children and adults.

Home testing
HIV home testing is available in some countries, and refers to two different types of test: home collection and home self-test.

I had unsafe sex. Now what?
If you’ve had unsafe sex, you’re probably feeling anxious and uncertain about the best course of action. Here’s what to do.