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How Soon Can You Detect HIV?

Most HIV tests screen for the presence of antibodies to the virus. Because the process of developing a level of antibodies that can be detected by these tests can take some time, tests taken soon after possible exposure are not accurate. Other tests that check directly for the presence of the virus can detect infection earlier.

  1. Seroconversion

    • The process of developing a detectable level of antibodies is called seroconversion. It takes an average of about one month to seroconvert; however it can take between three to six months after infection to seroconvert.

    ELISA

    • The most widely used tests for HIV are enzyme-linked immunoassays (ELISA). These tests screen for the presence of antibodies, and therefore rely on seroconversion to yield accurate results.

    RNA Tests

    • RNA tests check for the presence of HIV genetic material, RNA. They can detect infection sooner, within 9-11 days, but are less widely used than ELISAs.

    Considerations

    • Symptoms of the first stage of HIV-disease are not specific to HIV, and the second stage of HIV-disease has no symptoms. This means that the presence of symptoms is not an indicator of whether or not someone has contracted HIV, and testing is needed.

    Regular Screening

    • People who are sexually active as well as those who use injection drugs should be regularly screened for HIV once every six months. The Harm Reduction Coalition helps locate testing centers.

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