|
|
|
WHAT IS
THE HIV TEST?
The HIV test
is used to detect HIV infection in People. The test is done by
taking a blood sample and examining it for HIV antibodies. The two
possible results for the test are the following: |
- A positive test
means you are infected with HIV.
- A negative test
means either you don't have HIV or you have been infected with
HIV, but your body has not made antibodies yet (this can take
3-6 months). The only way to know for sure if you have HIV is to
have an HIV test.
Another HIV test that is an
alternative to taking blood is the Orasure test which uses oral
samples from the mouth. This test has proven to be 99% accurate.
|
 |
WHY SHOULD I TAKE THE HIV TEST?
You should take the HIV test
if you have done any of the following risky behavior:
- Had unprotected sex with an HIV
infected person or someone of unknown HIV status.
- Shared needles with anybody.
- Any activity that exposes you to
semen, blood, vaginal secretions, breast milk or other body fluids
that may carry HIV.
- Received a blood transfusion
before 1985.
|
|
HOW CAN I BE SURE THAT NO ONE
WILL KNOW THAT I TOOK THE TEST OR ITS RESULTS?
No one will know your name.
Everyone who takes the test is assigned a number with a personal code.
Trained medical counselors will administer the tests and answer any
questions. Revealing test results to anyone other than yourself or without
your written permission is against state law. |
WHAT IF I CAN'T SPEAK OR READ
ENGLISH VERY WELL?
Interpreter assistance to help you understand your counselors can be
arranged.
WHEN SHOULD I TAKE THE TEST?
You should take the test 3-6
months after any risky behavior.
WHAT HAPPENS AT THE TEST CENTER?
- Before the test, a counselor
explains the test and answers your questions.
- A little blood is taken from your
arm and sent to the lab. For Orasure, an oral sample will be taken
from your mouth. This procedure is painless.
- In 1-2 weeks, you go back to the
test center to get your results and receive counseling.
|
WHAT HAPPENS IF I GET A POSITIVE
RESULT?
If you have tested positive,
the counselor will refer you to services that will help you understand and
cope with HIV. People who have tested positive have much more medical
options than ever before. Early treatments can lead to a longer and
healthier life.
|
 |
WHAT HAPPENS IF I GET A NEGATIVE
RESULT?
If you have tested negative, the counselor may suggest that you take a
second test in a few months to confirm the first test result. The
counselor will also make a plan for you to reduce your risk of HIV
infection in the future.
MORE
FACTS ABOUT HIV TESTING
It's Free &
Anonymous.
It's Safe and
Easy.
Free interpreter
assistance is available.
The earlier you
know, the better it is for your health.
For answers to
questions or to make an appointment, please call:
AIDS Service in Asian Communities
(215) 563-2424 ext. 16
or
Philadelphia Community Health Alternatives
(215) 563-0658
Take
control by taking the test
CHOOSE
TO KNOW!
|
