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Testing for HIV

Why test?
Having an HIV test will determine whether or not you are infected with the HI virus. The test for HIV requires that a sample of your blood be taken to detect the presence of antibodies to HIV. If antibodies are present, you have the HIV infection.

If you've had unprotected sex or have been in contact with someone's contaminated blood, you are considered to be at risk for HIV infection and should get tested.

Should a positive test be taken early on in your HIV infection, you can start looking after your health early and live healthily for longer. It is easier to maintain a healthy immune system than to try and rebuild on what has been under attack for a long time.

Where can I go for testing?
An HIV test is confidential. You may go to government clinics and facilities, non-governmental organisations and companies offering HIV testing. Organisations such as the AIDS Training, Information and Counselling Centre (ATICC) and the New Start HIV Counselling and Testing Centre offer quick, affordable and convenient testing services. They are available throughout South Africa.

What is the testing process?

• Pre-test counselling - Pre-test counselling prepares you for the test and what lies ahead if you are HIV positive. During this session, you will have the opportunity to get as much information as possible from the counsellor. The counsellor could also discuss with you why you need to be tested and explain what a positive and negative result means. Finally, the counsellor will ask for permission for you to be tested.

• HIV test - There are many different types of tests, such as:

• Post-test counselling - After the test, you will be given your test results and post-test counselling by a counsellor or healthcare worker. If the test is negative, you will be given information on staying negative. If the test is positive, you will be given immediate emotional support and advice on where to go for ongoing medical and emotional support.

What does the test result mean?

• Positive - A positive test result means that you are HIV infected. It is normal to have strong reactions of shock, anger or guilt and it may take some time to accept your HIV status. When you feel ready, talk to someone - a friend, partner, healthcare worker, counsellor or faith leader. You may also contact the National AIDS Helpline on 0800 012 322. Testing HIV positive does not mean you have AIDS. Choose a healthy lifestyle to keep your immune system strong. Some people believe that if you live with HIV you cannot become infected with the virus again. This is not true. Always use a condom when having intercourse as you may become re-infected.
   
• Negative - If you tested HIV negative, you are not infected with HIV. However, you may still become infected in future. There is a "window period" where a person may be HIV infected but the test shows negative. This is because the test used is looking for antibodies for HIV and your body has not yet developed them at this stage. Therefore, you will be advised to wait for three months and then get re-tested.

Can my partner and I get tested together?
Couples are encouraged to go together for HIV testing and counselling. If you are starting a new relationship, planning to get married or to have children, or even if you are already married, you should get tested. Many couples are afraid to bring up the subject of HIV counselling and testing. But learning your status early will ensure you lead a healthier, longer life.

Reference
1. METROPOLITAN FOUNDATION. 2009. B the Future cellbook. South Africa.