HIV Alere Combo window period

[Danny2194]

Hi there,

I had an unprotected sex on the 11th of April 2021. I had an HIV test Alere Combo rapid on the 5th of July 2021 (85 days later) and the result was negative.

I am aware that combo test (4th generation test) result is conclusive after 4 weeks. However, I only know laboratory 4th generation test and this is the first time I know about rapid (Alere) 4th generation test.

May I ask:

1) Are there any differences between rapid Combo test (Alere) and conventional Combo laboratory test? Is the finger prick blood resulting in longer window period (longer than 4 weeks), and if so, for how long?

2) Is my negative test result on Combo Alere rapid conclusive at 85 days?

Many thanks for your help.

[AnxiousNoMore]

You are conclusively negative since you took a 4gen test after 4 weeks, and in fact at 85 days any test would have been conclusive. Was your encounter anal, vaginal or oral?

[Danny2194]

Many thanks!

Yeah, it was an unprotected anal sex. But I'm glad to hear that my result is conclusive.

I just want to confirm, for future reference, so there will be no difference in terms of window period between rapid HIV test combo (ie. Alere) and laboratory HIV test combo (ie. Elisa)? I think I read a bit much on the internet and I got confused, I just need someone's help to clear it up.

[GuitarRox]

Since you had an actual risk of having unprotected sex (assuming you mean vaginal or anal as ORAL is no risk), then it is good you tested. So many worry without ever even having a risk.  4th generation tests like you took are conclusive at 28 days and beyond so yes, your test is conclusive. No reason to doubt your test.

[Danny2194]

Thank you!