Should I Get The HIV Early Detection Test?
The HIV RNA Early Detection test will identify if the presence of the actual HIV virus is in the body. This is different from the HIV Antibody test which only tests for antibodies for HIV and can miss acute HIV infections. HIV RNA testing will be most accurate between 9 and 21 days after suspected exposure compared with the 2 to 9 weeks for accuracy using an antibody test. The HIV RNA Early Detection blood test can be used 1-3 days after suspected exposure to rule out an acute HIV infection for PEP purposes. A follow up test is recommended 90 days after initial suspected exposure to confirm negative test results.
A negative HIV RNA test result is required to initiate a PrEP or PEP HIV prevention protocol. To read more about PrEP & PEP, click here.
Anybody of any age can become infected with HIV. Individuals who are considered at high risk are those who work in a healthcare environment that potentially exposes them to HIV, or those who have engaged in unprotected vaginal or anal sex, have had multiple sex partners, have another type of STD infection, have had sex with someone infected with HIV, or or if you or your sex partner(s) have ever shared needles with anybody.
It is possible for you to be carrying HIV without having any symptoms. The only way to know if you have HIV is to get tested.
What will the results show?
Test will reflect one of the two types of outcomes:
“Positive,” or “Negative”.
- Negative Test Result: means that you do not have an HIV infection
- Positive Test Result: means your test showed an HIV infection in your blood and will need to seek treatment after a confirmation test
Can HIV Be Cured?
At this time, there is no known cure for HIV. However, there are many effective treatments that can manage and treat HIV and its symptoms. Many people lead long and fulfilled lives while managing an HIV infection. And advances continually are being made in the medical field, which could mean more permanent options for treating HIV in the future. To find out more about HIV treatment and management solutions, click here.