Rapid HIV Tests - Everything you need to know
Knowing your HIV status is essential for your health and well-being. However, many people are afraid to get tested, either because they are afraid of the results, they don't have access to testing services or they don't want to have to go & use professional services.
Rapid HIV tests, also known as point-of-care tests, are a convenient and discreet way to get tested for HIV. These tests can be performed at home without the need for laboratory equipment.
How Do HIV Self Tests Work?
Antibody tests are the most common type of HIV test. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to perform. However, antibody tests have a window period of 90 days. This means that the test may not be able to detect HIV if you have been recently infected.
Our OraQuick HIV test offers a new and convenient way to test for HIV, requiring just a mouth swab around your gums.
How Accurate Are HIV Tests?
Most rapid tests detect HIV antibodies. These are not part of the HIV virus itself, but are produced by the body in response to HIV infection, meaning that the accuracy of HIV tests varies depending on the stage of infection. Antibody tests are typically 99% accurate in people who have been infected with HIV for at least 3 months.
Most laboratory tests for HIV detect p24 antigen – this is part of the virus and can be detected earlier than antibodies. Most rapid tests, and all HIV self-tests, do not detect p24 antigen.
Are HIV Tests Reliable?
Overall, HIV tests are highly reliable. However, it is important to remember that no test is perfect. There is always a small chance that a test will give a false positive or a false negative result.
It is important to keep in mind that all HIV tests need to have reactive results (positive results) confirmed with a laboratory test. If you do receive a positive HIV result, you should contact your GP or a sexual health clinic for confirmatory testing.
Getting Tested for HIV
If you are concerned about your HIV status, there are many ways to get tested. You can get tested at your doctor's office, a sexual health clinic, or a community-based organization. You can also get tested at home using a rapid HIV test.
Getting tested for HIV is a simple and confidential way to know your status. It is the first step to getting the care and treatment you need to live a long and healthy life.
Conclusion
HIV tests are a reliable way to determine your HIV status. If you receive a positive result, it's essential to confirm it with a healthcare professional for accuracy. If your test result is negative but your potential exposure occurred within the past three months, you should retest after three months to ensure you are not infected.
Knowing your HIV status is essential for your health and well-being. If you are concerned about your HIV status, please get tested today.
Simply order your OraQuick HIV Self-Test today and take control of your health!
https://oralhivtest.co.uk/products/hiv-self-test