Testing Facts

Did You Know About HIV/AIDS Testing

Taking an HIV test is quick and easy with rapid testing A rapid test is a screening that produces very quick results
Taking an HIV test is quick and easy with rapid testing
A rapid test is a screening that produces very quick results, in as little as 20 minutes. Rapid tests use blood from a finger prick or oral fluid from a mouth swab to test for the presence of HIV antibodies.
 

HIV can take up to 12 weeks following exposure to register on a test
HIV tests measure the antibodies your body makes to fight HIV. It can take time for the immune system to create enough antibodies for the test to detect. Although this can vary according to the individual, most people who have been exposed to HIV will be detectable two to 12 weeks after exposure.

Anyone who is sexually active should take the test
HIV is not a disease that is immediately visible. Symptoms can take years to appear, so anyone engaging in any type of unprotected sexual activity should take the test as a precaution. Also, anyone who has shared needles or who has been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted disease should be tested.
 

Testing is confidential, free and available without parental consent to anyone over age 14
The Davis Clinic and all 67 county health departments will provide free HIV tests to anyone who requests a test. Testing is confidential and parental consent is not needed for young people over the age of 14.

Knowing your status is not limiting or scary, but smart and powerful.
If you are HIV positive, you can give the virus to someone else, even if you are unaware that you have it. With today's medications and treatment options, people with HIV are living longer and healthier lives than ever before, but early diagnosis is the key. Getting tested is important to your overall health.