HIV Antibody Testing

 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that between 850,000 and 900,000 Americans are infected with HIV. An estimated
180,000 to 280,000 Americans do not know they are infected, and may continue to engage in behavior that could jeopardize their health,
and the health of others.

Testing Programs:
Voluntary counseling, testing, and referral programs provide people an opportunity to learn their current HIV status, receive counseling about any behavioral changes needed to avoid infection or infecting others, and receive information and referrals to additional prevention programs, medical care or other services.

Confidential HIV Testing:
Confidential HIV testing means that you give your name when getting tested. Only you and the person testing you have access to the test results. You must provide written permission before this information can be revealed to others.

Rapid HIV Testing:
Rapid HIV testing means you receive your test results in as little as 20 minutes, instead of 2 weeks. While the test is running, you will receive information about HIV/AIDS, discuss prevention methods and design a risk management plan.

Other methods of HIV testing:
Two methods widely used for HIV testing are the oral-swab and the blood draw. When using either of these methods the test result is available in about two weeks. With the oral test, the technician places a blue-swab similar to a Q-tip into the mouth and collects oral fluid. Many people select this test method because it's simple and painless. If you select the blood draw, the technician will collect a tube of blood using a sterile needle and collection tubes. Often times, people select this method when testing for multiple infections.

The "Window Period":
HIV is diagnosed when antibodies to HIV are detected in the body. It can take up to 3 months from the time you become infected with HIV for the antibodies to be detectable. This is commonly called the "window period". During the window period, a person is contagious and can spread the virus to others. If you think you have been exposed to HIV but you test negative for it, you should be tested again in 3 months.

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