“My Test, My Way” has been selected as the theme for the 2021 National HIV Testing Day, scheduled for Sunday, June 27. This year’s theme highlights the need to take charge of a person’s health by getting tested in a manner that works best for an individual, whether it be by self-testing or going to a testing site. This day hopes to raise awareness of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) in communities and with healthcare providers, in order to reduce any stigma that surrounds this disease.
Currently, three types of HIV tests are available: nucleic acid tests, antigen/antibody tests, and antibody tests. HIV tests are typically performed on blood or oral fluid, but may also be performed on urine. Healthcare providers can determine the best test for an individual. Except for the NAT test, which may take several days, other tests may be ready within as little as 30 minutes.
However, no HIV test can detect the virus immediately after infection. If a person thinks that they have been exposed to HIV in the last 72 hours, they should talk to a health care provider right away. HIV is a virus that damages the immune system. Untreated HIV affects and kills CD4 cells, which are a type of immune cell called T cell. Over time, as HIV kills more CD4 cells, the body is more likely to get various types of conditions and cancers. HIV is transmitted through bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal/rectal fluids, and breast milk. The virus isn’t transferred in air or water, or through casual contact. , and there is effectively no risk of transmitting HIV to an HIV-negative partner through sex.
Receiving a diagnosis of HIV can be life changing. People can feel many emotions including sadness, hopelessness, or anger. Health care providers have the tools to help work through the early stages of a diagnosis and begin management of HIV. If a provider does not have the knowledge to treat HIV, they can refer an individual to a specialist. To get help with access to medical care, Nebraskans can refer to Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program (https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Ryan-White.aspx).
It is important to note that a positive result for HIV does not mean that you have AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). AIDS is the most advanced stage of HIV disease; HIV can lead to AIDS if a person does not get treatment or take care of their health. But if a person with HIV takes their medicine as prescribed, they may stay healthy for many years and may never be diagnosed with AIDS.