What are HIV self-tests and how do they work. How accurate are rapid HIV tests performed at home. Where can you obtain HIV self-testing kits. What should you do after getting your rapid HIV test results. Why is regular HIV testing important for public health.

What is an HIV Self-Test and How Does it Work?

An HIV self-test, also known as a rapid self-test, is a convenient way to check your HIV status in the privacy of your own home. These tests detect HIV antibodies in oral fluid or blood and can provide results in as little as 20 minutes. But how exactly do they work?

HIV self-tests look for antibodies that the body produces in response to HIV infection. When you use an oral fluid test, you swab your gums to collect a sample. For blood-based tests, you prick your finger to obtain a small blood sample. The test device then analyzes the sample for the presence of HIV antibodies.

It’s important to note that there is a “window period” between when a person is infected with HIV and when antibodies become detectable. For most people, this window is about 3-12 weeks. So while rapid tests are highly accurate when used correctly, a negative result may not detect a very recent infection.

Where Can You Obtain HIV Self-Testing Kits?

HIV self-tests are becoming increasingly accessible. Here are some common ways to obtain them:

• Pharmacies: Many major pharmacy chains now stock HIV self-tests over-the-counter.
• Online retailers: Self-tests can be purchased from various online marketplaces and shipped discreetly to your home.
• Health departments: Some local health departments offer free or low-cost self-tests to promote public health.
• Community organizations: LGBT centers, sexual health clinics, and other community groups may distribute self-tests.

When purchasing a self-test, ensure it is FDA-approved for use in the United States. Currently, the only FDA-approved HIV self-test is an oral fluid test. However, regulations and availability may vary by state, so it’s wise to check with your local health department about options in your area.

The Step-by-Step Process of Using an HIV Self-Test

Using an HIV self-test properly is crucial for accurate results. Here’s a general overview of the process:

1. Read all instructions carefully before beginning.
2. Wash and dry your hands thoroughly.
3. Remove the test device from its packaging.
4. For oral tests, swab your upper and lower gums.
5. For blood tests, use the lancet to prick your finger and collect a blood sample.
6. Apply the sample to the test device as directed.
7. Wait the specified amount of time (usually 15-20 minutes).
8. Read and interpret your results according to the instructions.

It’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely and to interpret results within the designated timeframe. Reading results too early or too late can lead to inaccurate interpretations.

Understanding Your Rapid HIV Test Results

After completing your self-test, you’ll need to interpret the results. But what do they mean?

A negative result indicates that the test did not detect HIV antibodies in your sample. However, remember the window period – if you’ve had a recent potential exposure, you may need to test again in a few weeks.

A positive result suggests the presence of HIV antibodies. It’s important to note that self-tests are considered screening tests. Any positive result should be confirmed with additional testing at a healthcare facility.

If your test is invalid, it means the test did not work properly. This could be due to improper test administration or a faulty test kit. In this case, you’ll need to use another self-test or seek testing at a healthcare provider.

Mail-In HIV Tests: An Alternative to Rapid Self-Tests

While rapid self-tests offer quick results at home, mail-in HIV tests provide another option for those seeking privacy and convenience. But how do they differ from rapid tests?

Mail-in HIV tests are typically antigen/antibody tests that require a small blood sample collected via finger prick. Here’s how they work:

1. Order the test online or through a healthcare provider.
2. Receive the test kit in the mail.
3. Collect your blood sample following the provided instructions.
4. Mail your sample back to the lab in the prepaid packaging.
5. Receive your results electronically or from your healthcare provider.

These tests are generally more sensitive than rapid tests and can detect HIV infection sooner after exposure. However, they don’t provide immediate results like rapid tests do.

It’s worth noting that while mail-in tests are not FDA-approved, they are regulated under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA). This ensures that the labs performing these tests meet certain quality standards.

The Importance of Regular HIV Testing for Public Health

Regular HIV testing plays a crucial role in public health efforts to combat the HIV epidemic. But why is it so important?

First and foremost, early detection of HIV allows for prompt treatment. Modern antiretroviral therapies can suppress the virus to undetectable levels, allowing people with HIV to live long, healthy lives and preventing progression to AIDS.

Moreover, people who are aware of their HIV-positive status can take steps to prevent transmission to others. This includes using barrier methods during sex, avoiding sharing needles, and adhering to treatment to maintain an undetectable viral load.

Regular testing also helps identify and address HIV clusters in communities, allowing public health officials to target prevention and treatment efforts more effectively.

The CDC recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine healthcare. People at higher risk, such as men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs, and individuals with multiple sexual partners, may benefit from more frequent testing.

Addressing Barriers to HIV Testing: Stigma and Access

Despite the importance of HIV testing, many individuals face barriers that prevent them from getting tested regularly. What are these barriers, and how can they be addressed?

Stigma remains a significant obstacle to HIV testing. Many people fear judgment or discrimination if they seek testing or receive a positive result. To combat this, public health campaigns aim to normalize HIV testing as a routine part of healthcare and educate the public about the realities of living with HIV in the modern era.

Access to testing is another crucial issue, particularly in rural areas or communities with limited healthcare resources. Self-tests and mail-in tests can help bridge this gap by providing testing options for those who may not have easy access to clinics or testing centers.

Financial barriers can also deter people from getting tested. Many health insurance plans now cover HIV testing, and numerous organizations offer free or low-cost testing options. Increasing awareness of these resources can help make testing more accessible to all.

The Future of HIV Testing: Innovations and Trends

As technology advances, so too does the field of HIV testing. What innovations are on the horizon, and how might they shape the future of HIV detection and prevention?

One exciting area of development is in rapid tests that can detect HIV earlier in the infection process. Researchers are working on tests that can identify HIV antigens as well as antibodies, potentially shortening the window period for detection.

Another trend is the integration of digital health technologies with HIV testing. Some self-test kits now come with smartphone apps that can help users interpret results, find nearby healthcare providers, and access support services.

Looking further ahead, scientists are exploring the potential for AI-powered image analysis to interpret HIV test results, which could improve accuracy and reduce user error in self-testing scenarios.

As testing technology becomes more sophisticated and user-friendly, it has the potential to further normalize regular HIV screening and contribute to the goal of ending the HIV epidemic.

Frequently Asked Questions About HIV Self-Testing

As HIV self-testing becomes more widespread, many people have questions about its use and reliability. Here are answers to some common queries:

How accurate are HIV self-tests?
When used correctly, HIV self-tests are highly accurate. The FDA-approved oral fluid test has a sensitivity (ability to correctly identify positive results) of 91.7% and a specificity (ability to correctly identify negative results) of 99.9%. However, as with any test, there is a small chance of false positives or false negatives.

Can I use a self-test immediately after a potential HIV exposure?
It’s important to wait at least 3 months after a potential exposure before using a self-test. This allows time for detectable levels of antibodies to develop if infection has occurred. Testing too early can lead to false negative results.

What should I do if my self-test result is positive?
A positive self-test result should always be confirmed with additional testing at a healthcare facility. Many clinics offer same-day confirmatory testing. Remember, a positive result doesn’t necessarily mean you have HIV, but it does mean you need follow-up care.

Are HIV self-tests covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by insurance plan. Some plans may cover self-tests, especially if prescribed by a healthcare provider. It’s best to check with your insurance company about their specific policies regarding HIV self-tests.

Resources for HIV Testing and Support

If you’re considering HIV testing or have questions about your status, numerous resources are available to provide information, support, and testing services:

• CDC’s GetTested: Provides a searchable database of HIV testing locations across the United States.
• HIV.gov: Offers comprehensive information about HIV/AIDS, including testing resources and support services.
• National HIV and STD Testing Resources: A CDC-sponsored site with information on testing options and locations.
• Local health departments: Often provide free or low-cost HIV testing and can connect you with additional resources in your area.
• LGBTQ+ community centers: Many offer HIV testing services and support specifically for LGBTQ+ individuals.
• Planned Parenthood: Provides HIV testing at many locations, along with other sexual health services.

Remember, knowing your HIV status is an important part of taking care of your health and the health of your partners. With the variety of testing options available today, including convenient self-tests, it’s easier than ever to get tested regularly and stay informed about your status.

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What is an HIV self-test?

An HIV self-test (or rapid self-test) is an antibody test that can be used at home or in a private location. With an HIV self-test, you can get your test results within 20 minutes.

How do I find an HIV self-test?

You can buy an HIV self-test at a pharmacy or online. Your local health department or another organization near you may offer free or reduced cost self-tests, which you can find using the locator below. The only FDA-approved HIV self-test currently available in the United States is an oral fluid test.

Note: State laws regarding self-testing vary and may limit availability. Check with a health care provider or local health department for additional HIV testing options.

How do I use an HIV self-test?

Read the instructions included in the test kit before you start.

You should always interpret HIV self-test results according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Learn more about what a negative or positive test result means.

If the HIV self-test is invalid, then the test did not work. You will need to use another HIV self-test, use a mail-in HIV test, or find testing at a health care provider or testing center.

What is a mail-in HIV test?

A mail-in HIV test is an antigen/antibody test that includes supplies to collect a small sample of blood from a finger stick. You or your health care provider can order the test online and send the sample to a lab for testing. If your provider orders the test, they will contact you with the test results.

Mail-in HIV tests are not approved by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration. However, under the Clinical Laboratory and Improvement Amendments of 1988, labs that offer this service are required to establish and verify the test’s accuracy.

How do I find a mail-in HIV test?

You can order a mail-in HIV test online. Your health care provider can also order a mail-in HIV test for you.

How do I use a mail-in HIV test?

Read the instructions included in the test kit before you start.

You should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure you collect a good sample. Learn more about what a negative or positive test result means.

Will my insurance cover an HIV self-test or mail-in test?

HIV self-tests and mail-in HIV tests may be covered by insurance. Be sure to check with your insurance company and health care provider about reimbursement for tests that you purchase.

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• OraQuick In-Home HIV Test
• Everlywell
• LetsGetChecked
• Nurx
• My LabBox

Around 1.2 million U.S. adults are living with HIV, but about 13 percent don’t know they have it. Knowing your HIV status can lead to earlier treatment. It can also help prevent HIV from progressing to AIDS, as well as other infections that may become more likely with a weakened immune system. It’s also important for preventing transmission to others.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people between the ages of 13 and 64 test at least once.

People of any race, gender, ethnicity, or sexual orientation can contract HIV. Some people may have a greater risk due to high risk behaviors, which can include:

• anal or vaginal sex
• unprotected sexual intercourse
• having multiple sex partners
• sharing needles during IV drug use

Gay, bisexual, transgender, Black, and Latinx populations are also disproportionately affected. There are also some states where HIV is more prevalent in rural areas. This may be due to barriers to healthcare and stigma and racism within the healthcare system.

There’s a window in which the immune system begins making antibodies against HIV, and many HIV tests look for these antibodies.

Antibodies are proteins the body produces in response to certain infections and illnesses. The time between when exposure and when the test can detect antibodies is called the window period. It’s different for each type of test.

Rapid home tests can detect antibodies within 90 days, whereas lab tests can detect them within 45 days after exposure.

It’s possible to get a false-negative test result if you test within the window. To confirm a negative HIV status, get tested again at the end of the window.

If you are symptomatic or unsure about your test results, seek medical help.

In the past, the only way to get tested for HIV was to go to a doctor’s office, hospital, or community health center. Now, there are options for taking an HIV test at home.

Some HIV tests, whether taken at home or at a health facility, are even able to deliver results within 30 minutes. These are known as rapid HIV tests.

A doctor can order an HIV test for a patient to use at home, but it’s not required. This test requires taking a small sample of blood through a finger stick and placing it onto a card. Then the card is mailed to a lab. The doctor, or the company if the test was purchased without a doctor, will contact them with the results.

A rapid HIV self-test uses a sample of fluid from the mouth to check for antibodies to HIV. This quick HIV test involves a swab of the top and bottom gums using the stick included in the kit. The stick then goes into a vial containing a developer solution. Results are available in 20 to 40 minutes.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the OraQuick In-Home HIV test measured at about 92 percent accuracy at detecting HIV. But about 1 out of 12 tests results in a false negative, which means testing negative when a person is actually positive. About 1 out of 5,000 people test positive when they don’t have HIV.

It’s also important to know that it takes the body up to 3 months to produce antibodies to HIV. Taking a rapid HIV test less than 3 months after exposure may not produce an accurate result.

It’s important for anyone with a positive result on a home rapid HIV test to check with a healthcare professional or call the product’s customer support center. A follow-up test can confirm the results.

Healthline chose the at-home HIV tests for this article carefully. Tests included in our roundup met a variety of criteria, including the following:

• The test must have high accuracy and sensitivity.
• Companies that process test samples must use CLIA certified laboratories.
• Tests that are affordable for a wide range of budgets, regardless of insurance coverage.
• Companies must offer robust and transparent privacy measures, such as data protection and discreet packaging.
• Companies must inform customers when they will receive their test results and whether they will receive them via email, app, or phone.
• Companies that provide further support, such as a follow-up phone consultation with a doctor or another healthcare professional, to discuss next steps, especially with a positive test result.

A note on price

Private health insurance may not cover the cost of an at-home HIV test bought at a drugstore or online. Some local health departments and organizations provide these tests for free or at a reduced cost.

Pricing guide

• $ = under $50
• $$ = $50–$150
• $$$ = over $150

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OraQuick In-Home HIV Test

• Price: $
• Method: oral swab
• Results window: 20–40 minutes

The OraQuick In-Home HIV Test is currently the only rapid home test approved by the FDA. It’s sold online and at drugstores. It’s suitable for people over 18. People under 18 can still use the test, though they should test under adult supervision.

To take the OraQuick In-Home HIV Test:

1. Swab top and bottom gums with the enclosed stick.
2. Place the swab in a tube with a developing solution.

Results are available in 20 to 40 minutes. If one line appears, the test is negative. Two lines indicate a positive result. Another test performed at a commercial or clinical lab is necessary to confirm a positive test result.

Clinical studies have shown that the OraQuick In-Home HIV Test has an expected performance of approximately 92 percent for test sensitivity.

Pros

• When used correctly, the test has a 99.9 percent accuracy rate for negative results and a 92 percent accuracy rate for positive results.
• The test uses saliva instead of blood — no finger-pricking required.
• You don’t have to send the sample to a lab and wait for results. You’ll know at home within 20 to 40 minutes.

Cons

• Additional lab testing is needed after a positive result.
• Even when used correctly, the test can produce a small number of false-positive and false-negative results.
• Results may not be accurate if exposed to the virus within 3 months of testing.

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A note on FDA approval

Other rapid home tests are available in the United States, but they have not been FDA approved. Using tests that are not FDA approved may not always provide accurate results.

There are other HIV tests that can be conveniently purchased online and taken at home in most states. They include tests from Everlywell and LetsGetChecked.

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Everlywell

• Price: $–$$
• Method: finger-stick blood test
• Results window: within 5 business days

Everlywell is a fourth generation HIV test. It measures both antibodies to the virus and proteins called HIV p24 antigens from cells containing the virus.

Insurance doesn’t cover the test cost, but Everlywell does accept health savings account (HSA) and flexible spending account (FSA) payments.

The Everlywell HIV Test uses blood taken from the fingertip with a small needle provided in the test kit. Unlike rapid HIV tests, Everlywell tests do not provide same-day results. The test samples have to first be sent to a lab. Test results should be available online within 5 business days.

Medical professionals are available to explain the test results and discuss the next steps for people with positive test results.

Pros

• It’s a fourth generation HIV test, so it can detect the virus within 18 to 45 days — which is faster than antibody tests.
• If you receive a positive result, you can connect with one of the company’s physicians at no cost to discuss next steps.
• The company sends a report of the results to a smartphone or another device.
• The test is more than 99 percent accurate, according to the company.

Cons

• A finger prick is needed to obtain a blood sample.
• The sample has to be sent to a lab, and it takes a few days to get results.
• Insurance generally doesn’t cover the cost of this test.

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LetsGetChecked

• Price: $$–$$$
• Method: blood and urine sample
• Results window: 2–5 days

This test kit requires both a blood sample and a urine sample. LetsGetChecked doesn’t provide same-day results, as test samples have to first be sent to a lab. Test results should be available within 2 to 5 days.

The LetsGetChecked Home STD Testing kits test for multiple sexually transmitted infections (STIs) at the same time.

The Standard 5 tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, HIV, and syphilis.

The Complete 8 tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, HIV, syphilis, Gardnerella, mycoplasma, and ureaplasma.

LetsGetChecked doesn’t accept health insurance, but you can pay with HSA or FSA.

Pros

• It tests for HIV and other STDs at the same time.
• Those who test positive have access to an expert to discuss the results.
• The test is packaged and delivered in a plain envelope for privacy.

Cons

• LetsGetChecked requires a blood and urine test.
• Results take 2 to 5 days.
• The sample must be collected before 10 a.m. and returned on the same day.
• Because the HIV test is only available bundled in a set of five or eight tests, it’s more expensive than an individual HIV test.

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Nurx

• Price: $$–$$$
• Method: The company uses finger-prick blood cards for HIV, though depending on the kit and what else you’re testing for, you may also submit a vaginal swab, throat swab, or urine sample
• Results window: within 7 business days

Nurx offers three different test kits that check for HIV and three to four other STDs. The HIV test relies on a blood sample, which the company claims is superior to saliva-based testing, as it can detect infection more quickly. Results should be available within 7 business days.

Nurx accepts health insurance, but people who aren’t insured can pay an out-of-pocket fee. The company offers access to a healthcare professional for advice on next steps — regardless of whether the test is positive or negative.

Nurx offers three kits, so you can choose what’s best for your needs:

• The Full Control Kit: tests for HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and hepatitis C
• The Basics Covered Kit: tests for HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis
• The Healthy V Kit: tests for HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis

Pros

• It tests for HIV and other STDs at the same time.
• You get access to a healthcare professional for advice, whether you test positive or negative.
• If you test positive, the company will connect you to in-person care.
• The test is covered by insurance.

Cons

• Results can take up to 7 business days.
• It can be expensive if you don’t have health insurance.
• A medical consultation costs an additional $15.

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My LabBox

• Price: $$
• Method: finger prick
• Results window: 2–5 days

My LabBox uses a finger prick method to test for HIV. Results are available online within 2 to 5 days. The company claims its test is 99.9 percent accurate, and it’s as reliable as the tests doctors and hospitals use.

The test isn’t covered by insurance, but FSA and HSA payments are accepted. If you receive a positive result, you get free telemedicine consultations with STI counselors and doctors.

Pros

• The test is 99.9 percent accurate at detecting HIV.
• If you test positive, you receive free access to counselors and doctors via telemedicine.
• Results are available on a HIPAA secure online account, according to the company.

Cons

• It requires a finger prick.
• Health insurance isn’t accepted.
• Results take up to 5 days.

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Product	Price	Method	Results time	Accuracy
OraQuick	$	at home	20–40 minutes	99. 9% for negative results, 92% for positive results
Everlywell	$–$$	lab-based	within 5 business days	more than 99%
LetsGetChecked	$–$$	lab-based	within 5 business days	as accurate as tests done in healthcare facilities
Nurx	$$–$$$	lab-based	within 5 business days	not specified
My LabBox	$$	lab-based	2–5 business days	more than 99.9%

When it comes to picking a home HIV test, your preferences are important. If you’re not a fan of needles or blood, you may prefer the OraQuick test, which only requires an oral swab.

If you want advice from a doctor on next steps, you might prefer Everlywell or LetsGetChecked. If you’re looking to get tested for a spectrum of STIs at once, Nurx could be a great option.

Cost is also a factor, as insurance doesn’t usually cover at-home HIV tests. Even if you are insured, your plan might only cover some of the testing, not the full cost.

Another factor to consider is test availability, as it can change depending on your location. Some tests may not be sold where you live. Even if they are available, if you live in a remote place with limited options for sending a lab-based test back, it could be easier to opt for something that’s self-contained and done completely at home.

Testing outside of the United States

Rapid tests that have been approved for HIV home testing outside of the United States include:

• Atomo HIV Self Test. This test is available in Australia and has been approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), the country’s regulatory agency. It tests for HIV in 15 minutes.
• autotest VIH. This test is only available in certain parts of Europe. It tests for HIV in 15 to 20 minutes. However, this service is temporarily unavailable, as the company has shifted focus to filling demand for COVID-19 testing.
• INSTI HIV Self Test. This test launched in the Netherlands in 2017 and can be purchased everywhere except the United States. It promises results within 60 seconds.
• Simplitude ByMe HIV Test. This test launched in July 2020 and is available in the United Kingdom. It tests for HIV in 15 minutes.

These particular tests all rely on a blood sample taken from the fingertip.

None of them have been FDA approved for use in the United States. However, the autotest VIH, INSTI, and Simplitude ByMe kits all have CE marking. This means a product complies with the safety, health, and environmental standards set forth by the European Economic Area (EEA).

How soon can a rapid test detect HIV?

A rapid antibody test can detect HIV 23 to 90 days after exposure. Tests that use blood from a vein usually provide faster results than ones that use a finger prick or cheek swab.

However, vein-based testing isn’t something you can generally do at home. This type of test requires a healthcare professional to draw blood.

What does a rapid HIV test detect?

Rapid HIV tests work by detecting antibodies to HIV in a sample of blood or saliva. These proteins are usually present within a few months of infection, but if you recently contracted the virus, the proteins may not be present or detectable yet.

The CDC provides more information on specific types of HIV tests and when they can accurately detect the virus.

Can a rapid HIV test be wrong?

Yes. A rapid HIV test can sometimes produce positive results in people who don’t have HIV. This is called a false positive.

These tests can also produce false-negative results, which happen when someone who has HIV tests negative. The accuracy depends on the specific test used.

More often than not, a positive test will require a follow-up assessment and blood test to make sure the result is accurate. At-home testing companies may recommend visiting a healthcare professional in-person for this.

Additionally, if you test negative but are at higher risk and suspect you may have contracted the virus, consult with a healthcare professional to see what’s best for you and to get retested.

Are home HIV tests accurate?

Home tests are an accurate way to test for HIV. However, they may take longer to detect the virus after exposure than tests performed at a doctor’s office.

The vast majority of at-home HIV tests are antibody-only tests. These don’t test for HIV antigen, which is typically included in a fourth-generation HIV test done at a hospital or doctor’s office. However, Everlywell’s at-home HIV test is also a fourth-generation test and does detect antigens, so it may be the most reliable at-home option.

Simply stated, most rapid HIV tests are less accurate than medical office tests because tests for HIV antibodies and antigens can detect an infection sooner. The OraQuick In-Home HIV Test may not detect HIV as quickly as a blood test.

What are the benefits of home HIV tests?

HIV can be much easier to manage and treat if identified early and treatment is started quickly.

Home HIV tests allow people to receive results almost immediately — sometimes within minutes — without having to wait for an appointment with a healthcare professional or to take time out of their schedule to visit a lab.

Early identification is essential for successful long-term treatment with HIV.

Home tests empower people to learn whether they have the virus earlier than any other testing methods. Early detection can help people seek treatment quickly and also prevent people from unknowingly transmitting the virus.

Early treatment can suppress the virus to undetectable levels, which makes HIV untransmittable. A viral load of fewer than 50 copies per milliliter (mL) of blood is considered to be undetectable.

Finding a reliable, licensed lab is important for ensuring accurate test results. To find a lab for a blood sample in the United States:

• Go to gettested.cdc.gov to enter location and find a nearby lab or clinic.
• Call 800-232-4636 (800-CDC-INFO).
• Visit the nearest local public health center.

These resources can also help people get tested for other STIs.

In the first few weeks after a person has contracted HIV, they may notice flu-like symptoms. These symptoms include:

• rash
• pain in the muscles and joints
• fever
• headache
• neck swelling around the lymph nodes
• sore throat

During the early stages, which is known as primary infection or acute HIV infection, HIV is much easier to transmit to others because levels of virus in the blood are very high.

A person should consider taking an HIV test if they experience these symptoms after the following activities:

• having sex without a condom or another barrier method
• using injection drugs
• receiving a blood transfusion or being an organ recipient, though these are rarely connected with HIV

If you test positive on a home test, talk with a doctor as soon as possible to discuss your test results and treatment and to get a blood-based test.

Starting treatment early can prevent the development of AIDS, and it can also decrease the time it takes for HIV to become undetectable, which can help reduce the risk of transmitting HIV to others.

Getting a negative test result more than 3 months since exposure usually rules out a case of HIV.

If it’s been less than 3 months since exposure, consider taking another HIV test at the end of the 3-month period to be sure. During that time, it’s best to use condoms during sex and avoid sharing needles.

If you receive a positive result, a qualified lab should retest the sample or a new sample to check the accuracy. Getting a positive result on a follow-up test means an HIV diagnosis.

If you test positive, it’s recommended to talk with a healthcare professional as soon as possible to discuss treatment options.

A healthcare professional can help start antiretroviral therapy right away. This is a medication that helps stop HIV from replicating and can help prevent transmission of HIV.

It’s important to use condoms, dental dams, or other barrier methods with any and all sexual partners while waiting for test results or until the virus becomes undetectable. It’s also always best to refrain from sharing needles.

Speaking with a therapist or joining a support group, whether in person or online, can help you cope with the emotions and health questions that come with an HIV diagnosis. Managing HIV can be stressful and difficult to discuss with close friends and family.

Speaking privately with a therapist or being part of a community of others with the same health condition can help you lead a healthy, active life after diagnosis.

Seeking additional help from healthcare professionals, such as social workers or counselors often associated with HIV clinics, can also help you cope with issues related to treatment. These professionals can help navigate scheduling, transportation, finances, and more.

Products to try

Barrier methods, such as condoms and dental dams, can help prevent the transmission of STIs.

Shop for them online:

• condoms
• dental dams

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People can test for other STIs, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, using home testing kits. These tests usually consist of taking a urine sample or a swab from the genital area and sending it to a lab facility for testing.

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The test should be repeated if a person received negative results but they’re experiencing symptoms.

Another option is to have a healthcare professional order another test to ensure that the results are accurate.

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Center for Medical Prevention – HIV Test: Expedition 2020

Murmansk summed up the results of the All-Russian action of the Ministry of Health of Russia

2020”

Murmansk region completed its participation in All-Russian action of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation “HIV Test: Expedition 2020”, aimed at informing citizens about HIV / AIDS, reducing stigma and discrimination against HIV-positive citizens and motivating the population to take an HIV test. The action is supported by the Gorky Automobile Plant and Reckitt Benckiser Halsker.

From 1 to 7 August, residents of Kandalaksha, Apatity, Olenegorsk, Monchegorsk, and Murmansk took part in the action. More than 300 people found out their HIV status during express testing. In the cities where the action was held, educational seminars were held for primary care physicians, at which the Expedition specialists spoke about the features of pre-test and post-test counseling, and various models of dialogue and the role of doctors in counseling patients were clearly demonstrated in educational films.

On August 7, Murmansk hosted the closing of the action “HIV Test: Expedition 2020” . At the solemn event, the results of the participation of the region in the All-Russian campaign of the Ministry of Health of Russia “HIV Test: Expedition 2020” were summed up.

As a result of the action, consultant of the Department of Organization of Medical Care and Development of the Healthcare System of the Ministry of Health of the Murmansk Region E. A. Savchenko spoke about the importance and necessity of such a large-scale preventive measure as free and anonymous testing for HIV infection. “Today it is fashionable to be healthy, take care of yourself and your health. And knowing one’s HIV status is an integral part of this care” . E.A. Savchenko said that thanks to the efforts of the regional Center for the Prevention and Control of AIDS, a large complex of preventive measures for HIV infection is being carried out in the region, including informing the population, informing schoolchildren, students, and working youth.

In conclusion, E.A. Savchenko singled out the main message that the campaign “HIV Test: Expedition” carried by the Ministry of Health of Russia carries: “The action helps to understand that, even in the case of a positive HIV test result, a person is not left alone. Medicine at the present stage is ready to provide him with effective assistance, on the one hand, and on the other hand, to prevent the possibility and remove the risks of infecting his loved ones and dear people, thereby reducing the spread of HIV infection” .

Pediatrician at the Center for the Prevention and Control of AIDS and Infectious Diseases, Murmansk Regional Center for Specialized Medical Care , Chief Freelance Pediatrician for HIV/AIDS of the Ministry of Health of the Murmansk Region L.I. with the aim that it would enable the child to be born healthy and give him the right to live healthy. Over the past 10 years, between 60 and 110 children a year have been born in the Murmansk region to HIV-positive mothers, and fortunately, a very low percentage of children are born with HIV infection. Over the past 5 years, this is, on average, 1 child per year. As a rule, this is a child born to a woman who was not registered for pregnancy and was not observed in the antenatal clinic, and, accordingly, did not receive antiretroviral therapy” . In conclusion, L.I.Veselova stated that with the correct therapeutic management of a mother-child couple, the risk of having a child with HIV-plus tends to zero.

Head of the Department of the Center for the Prevention and Control of AIDS and Infectious Diseases of the Murmansk Regional Center for Specialized Medical Care V.V. Vanyukov: the significance of the HIV/AIDS problem. Analyzing the approach to organizing and holding the campaign, we saw the desire to reach as many people as possible with information. HIV testing is a critical step in the prevention of this disease, which saves lives of HIV-positive people through early detection and initiation of treatment, which, in turn, can significantly reduce the spread of infection.” V.V. Vanyukov expressed the opinion that the action makes a significant contribution to improving the level of sanitary culture of the population, allows to eliminate the risks of HIV infection by forming a responsible attitude towards one’s health among the inhabitants of Russia.

www.o-spide.ru/murmanskaya_2020

Tested on ourselves: we pass a rapid HIV test

Healthcare, 16:43, April 15, 2021, Margarita Matyasheva 9 0005 Listen to news

Tested on ourselves: we pass a rapid test for HIV. How to get tested for HIV at a mobile station.

Since February, the Tyumen Center for the Prevention and Control of AIDS has again launched anonymous rapid HIV testing points. Weekly branded cars stop near shopping centers and other popular places in the city, everyone can check themselves for free, without directions and documents.

Last week, the mini-laboratory was located on Tsvetnoy Boulevard. Volunteer students from the medical college handed out leaflets and invited citizens to the mobile station. “Why not?” I thought and followed the girl in the white shirt. Several people were standing next to the white Gazelka: some were in line for testing, others were waiting for the results. Even companies of 2-3-4 people approached the car.

Author’s photo

“This is the first time I am taking such a rapid HIV test, before that I was tested only in the standard way in the hospital and waited for the result for several days. I’m a little worried, although there were no dangerous situations. The doctor reminded me of HIV prevention measures. And she also said: do not fight with your fists to the point of blood, –

said the girl who came out of the mobile station with a smile.

After a short wait, I went to the Gazelka salon. The doctor invited me to a table where the necessary instruments were located. Immediately before the procedure, the woman asked for verbal consent, as well as the name, age and name of the mother. As it turned out later, these data are necessary in order to assign a kind of code to the dealer, consisting of the first letters of the name, numbers (age) and the first letters of the mother’s name. Previously, only the serial number of the person being tested was said, but some, due to excitement, forgot it. Therefore, I had to come up with such a system to help identify a person.

In the meantime, the doctor pricked my finger with an automatic lancet – it didn’t hurt at all – and put a drop of blood on the form. Rapid tests that are used to detect HIV infection are highly sensitive, their results are 99% reliable. In the process, I was reminded that everyone should be tested for HIV annually. I found out my result in five minutes, I was again invited inside.

— You have a negative result, congratulations! Now we need to maintain this indicator, –

said the doctor and handed me a small present.

Author’s photo

What to do, there is a rapid test was positive? In Russia, based on the results of such an examination, a diagnosis cannot be made. A person needs to undergo an additional examination at the AIDS center.

– If suddenly a person has a positive result, they tell him what it means and where he will need to go for an additional examination. Explain that this is not a diagnosis. There is a possibility that the result may be a false positive.