HIV & AIDS - Can I be tested?

How can I find out if I have the HIV? If you have had un-protected sex (oral, anal, or vaginal) with someone who has, or could have the HIV - or - if you have shared needles when using drugs, you should have a HIV test.

There are two types of tests:

• Confidential HIV tests become a part of your medical record. This type of test will help your doctor or health department get you additional help.
• With an Anonymous HIV test, you never give your name to anyone. Only you will know your test results. No one will ever know you had the test.

It usually takes 2-3 weeks to get you test results. Remember that you must go back to the testing center to get your results.

How can I get tested?You can contact your doctor or the local health department to have a HIV test. Depending upon where you go the test may be free (at health departments) or cost between $10 - $20. There is also a Home Access test available for use at home. The Home Access test kit can be found at most local drug stores. The testing procedure involves pricking your finger with a special device, placing drops of blood on a specially treated card, then mailing the card in to be tested at a licensed laboratory. The kit comes with an identification number to use when phoning for the test results. You may speak to a counselor before taking the test, while waiting for the test result, and when getting the result. To get more information call the:

• CDC National STD and AIDS Hotlines 1-800-227-8922 or 1-800-342-2437
• AIDS Hotline for the Deaf 1-800-243-7889
• Call the Georgia AIDS/STD Hotline at 1-800-551-2728 to receive information on where to go for confidential and/or anonymous STD/HIV testing in Georgia.

How soon will the test show if I have the HIV?You can be infected (and able to infect others!) in as little as 2 weeks following your exposure to the HIV. Most people will test positive within 3 - 6 months after being exposed to the HIV.Remember, HIV infected people will not appear sick. There are no outward signs that they have this virus!

What do the test results mean?

A positive test result means:
• You probably have HIV. In rare cases a positive result is a mistake. It is a good idea to repeat the test just to be sure.
• You can give HIV to others!
• You need to see a doctor or visit the health department very soon to begin treatment to slow the growth of the virus. You may stay healthy for years if you take care of yourself.

A negative test result means:
• You do not have HIV at this time. It does not mean that you cannot get HIV.
• It is too soon to tell. If you have been exposed to HIV within the last 6 months, you should repeat the test in a few months.