The importance of getting tested
The only way to know your HIV status for sure is to get tested. It is impossible to tell from a person’s appearance whether he or she has HIV infection. A person who is HIV positive may look and feel perfectly well, and be unaware that they are infected.
|
 |
HIV antibody tests
There are three possible HIV antibody tests: HIV ELISA tests,
HIV rapid tests and saliva and urine tests.
|
|
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.
|
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
Home testing
HIV home testing is available in some countries, and refers to two different types of test: home collection and home self-test. |
|
Tests used to monitor HIV disease
Look at the following tests used to monitor HIV disease in South Africa: |
|
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.
|
