There are three main types of HIV tests:
Antigen/Antibody Tests: The most common tests. They look for both HIV antibodies and the p24 antigen. They can detect the virus as early as 11 to 45 days after exposure.
Antibody Tests: These primarily look for antibodies and are often used for rapid tests and at-home kits. They typically require 3 weeks to 3 months after exposure to become accurate.
Nucleic Acid Tests (NAT): These look for the actual virus in the blood. They are highly accurate in the early stages (10 to 33 days after exposure) but are primarily used to monitor those already on treatment rather than for initial screening.
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTUIONS
- For in vitro diagnostic use only.
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For healthcare professionals and professionals at point of care sites.
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Do not use after the expiration date.
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Please read all the information in this leaflet before performing the test.
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The test panel should remain in the sealed pouch until use.
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All specimens should be considered potentially hazardous and handled in the same manner asan infectious agent.
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The used test panel should be discarded according to federal, state and local regulations.
REAGENT PREPARATION AND STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS
FAQ
Q: What is the main test for HIV?
A: The primary and most widely recommended screening test for HIV is the antigen/antibody (Ag/Ab) combination test. It is highly sensitive, checks for both HIV antibodies and the p24 antigen, and is typically performed by a laboratory using blood drawn from a vein.
Q: Will a regular blood test show HIV?
A: No, a normal, routine blood test (like a Complete Blood Count or basic metabolic panel) will not detect HIV. HIV testing is highly specialized and must be explicitly ordered by your doctor or requested when doing a blood draw.
Q: How do I suspect if I have HIV?
A: The only way to know for sure if you have HIV is to get tested. You can't rely on symptoms to tell whether you have HIV. Knowing your HIV status gives you powerful information so you can take steps to keep yourself and your partner(s) healthy: If you test positive, you can take medicine to treat HIV.
Q: Why do I keep thinking I have HIV?
A: Persistent, intrusive thoughts that you have HIV-even after receiving negative test results or in the absence of high-risk exposure-are a recognized psychological phenomenon often referred to as HIV phobia (a type of nosophobia), health anxiety, or OCD.
Milk: While once believed to soothe ulcers, it actually prompts your stomach to produce more acid.
Q: How common is HIV in the US?
A: About 1.2 million people in the U.S. live with HIV, and roughly 1 in 8 (13%) are unaware of their status. While it is a persistent public health issue, it is not common in the general population; new annual infections have dropped by over two-thirds since the mid-1980s.
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