An antigen/antibody test performed by a laboratory on blood from a vein can usually detect HIV infection 18 to 45 days after an exposure. Antigen/ antibody tests done with blood from a finger prick can take longer to detect HIV (18 to 90 days after an exposure).

FAQs:

• HIV causes AIDS, weakening the immune system, making it vulnerable to diseases.
• Transmission: HIV spreads through contact with infected body fluids (blood, semen, vaginal fluid), unprotected sex, needle sharing, or from mother to fetus during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Who Should Test: Routine for women aged 13–64, especially during pregnancy. Recommended for those at risk (multiple partners, HIV-positive partners, drug use).

Importance of Testing:

• Early detection helps maintain health and prevents transmission.
• Pregnancy and HIV: Pregnant women need testing to prevent transmission to their babies.
• Screening Test: Detects HIV antibodies and p24 antigen; results in about 3 weeks.

1. Book your lab test for a convenient home sample collection service.
2. Expect a call from a lab representative to confirm and schedule your test at your preferred time.
3. A certified professional will visit your location to assist you with the sample collection process.
4. Once your samples are processed, you will receive an SMS with instructions to download your reports directly to your phone.

HIV Antigen/Antibody Test

Product Description

Detects HIV antigen (p24) and antibodies in blood or oral fluid. HIV causes AIDS, and this test helps confirm infection. After HIV exposure, the virus replicates, and viral load and p24 antigen levels rise. Antibodies develop about 2-8 weeks later.

Why It's Done:

• Determine HIV infection
• Pregnancy planning
• Diagnosis of Hepatitis B, C, Tuberculosis, or STDs
• Annual screening is advised for those who are at high risk for HIV infection like having an HIV positive sex partner, multiple sexual partners, homosexual people, sharing needles.

Test Results:

Negative: No current HIV evidence; doesn't detect very early infections. The HIV antibody tests do not detect an HIV infection soon after exposure, before the development of antibodies. Most people produce detectable levels of antibody 3 to 12 weeks after exposure. If someone is screened with an HIV antibody test too soon, the result may be negative despite the fact that the person is infected.

Positive (after confirmatory tests): Confirms HIV infection. Regular testing is vital for those at risk to detect potential exposure to the virus.