Why should I get tested for HIV?
HIV testing is a simple way to protect your health and the health of others. Testing is fast, easy and confidential.
When you know your HIV status, you can make informed decisions, get access to treatment, find support, and prevent onward transmission.
Who should get tested?
HIV testing is recommended for:
- Anyone who has had unprotected sex, particularly with new or multiple partners
- People with symptoms or diagnosed with other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) e.g. syphilis, hepatitis, gonorrhoea
- Gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men who are sexually active
- Trans and non-binary people who are sexually active
- People who inject drugs and share needles or equipment
- Anyone who has never been tested or hasn’t tested in over a year
- People who have experienced sexual assault
Not everyone will need a HIV test, but everyone can test for HIV regardless of age, gender or background.
How do I test for HIV?
HIV tests are done using rapid HIV test kit with a trained tester or using a self-test kit which you can do at home. These test kits provide an immediate result (60 seconds). Some HIV tests are done at a clinic or through a self-administered test kit and are sent away for analysis in a laboratory. Results usually take a couple of weeks.