But undiagnosed HIV can spread silently
If you or your partner may have been exposed to HIV, testing can be an important part of looking after your sexual health — even if you have no symptoms.
HIV can be present without noticeable symptoms, sometimes for a long time, and a person can transmit HIV without knowing they have it. This is why taking an HIV test is the only way to know your HIV status.
Current antiretroviral treatment is highly effective. If HIV is diagnosed, starting treatment promptly can protect your health. People who achieve and maintain an undetectable viral load do not sexually transmit HIV.
Regular testing may also help reduce onward transmission by allowing people with HIV to be diagnosed and linked to care sooner. HIV self-tests can offer a private and convenient testing option for people for whom home testing is appropriate.
If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, the right time to test depends on the type of HIV test and its window period. A non-reactive result during the window period may need to be repeated later.
If a possible exposure occurred within the last 72 hours, seek medical advice urgently because post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) may be appropriate.
View our HIV tests to compare the available options and choose the test that fits your needs.
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