HIV is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that invades and kills cells that are part of the immune system. Over time, a crippled immune system due to HIV can lead to the development of AIDS. Early HIV screening and proper treatment is essential to take a proactive approach to your health and become and stay undetectable.
HIV Testing and Results
HIV can be diagnosed either through a blood or saliva test. If you test positive, follow-up tests will confirm the result. There are different kinds of HIV tests, depending on when you might have been exposed to the virus.
How Soon Can HIV Be Detected by a Blood Test?
An antibody/antigen test can detect HIV in 18 to 45 days after being exposed to the virus and is the most common HIV screening test. Your body produces HIV antibodies to combat the infection, while antigens are specific virus components that trigger the body’s immune response.
Your health care provider can also administer an antibody test that looks for antibodies in blood, detecting them between 23 and 90 days after contact with the virus.
How Long Does It Take to Get HIV Results?
Modern Urgent Care offers rapid HIV testing near Central Valley, California. You will get the results the day after your appointment. Once we collect your blood sample, we send it to Quest for testing, and our team will contact you as soon as we receive the results.
HIV Symptoms and Treatment
Early HIV symptoms can show up a few weeks after contracting the virus and usually dissipate after a few months. These flu-like symptoms include:
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Nausea
- Skin rash
- Upset stomach
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes
There is no cure for HIV, but scientists are working hard to find one. With antiretroviral therapy (ART), people can effectively manage HIV and become and stay undetectable, meaning the HIV levels are so low that the virus cannot be transmitted to others. Most people living with HIV and undergoing treatment through ART can enjoy a long, healthy life.
Get Tested and Get Treatment
Modern Urgent Care provides fast testing services so you can receive results as soon as possible, and begin a treatment plan right away if needed. Visit our walk-in centers in Stockton, Manteca and Ceres, California, or book an appointment for HIV screening today.
