Aa
hiv testing window
Here goes. I have seen it posted here that the CDC says 3 months for an hiv antibody test conclusiveness. The manufacturers of the tests also make this claim according to posts here. I cannot corroborate these claims anywhere. Very frustrated and trying to get answers or links to source materials for these claims. Thanks.
It's been 68 days ( 9 weeks) for me and the rapid rest showed negative. However that I still feel sick makes me scared and I can't wait for 90 days.
You think rapid test as confirmatory is ok or I should make a full one when they send blood to the lab.
You think rapid test as confirmatory is ok or I should make a full one when they send blood to the lab.
Forgot to post the link to the new CDC testing guideline chart:
http://www.cdc.gov/nchhstp/newsroom/docs/2014/HIV-testing-Labs-Flowchart.pdf
http://www.cdc.gov/nchhstp/newsroom/docs/2014/HIV-testing-Labs-Flowchart.pdf
The CDC has updated its guidelines. Basically, if you test negative on a DUO (not a rapid test), at 4 weeks post exposure, then no further follow up testing is required. That's considered conclusive.
The rest of the tests (antibody, etc) are conclusive at THREE months, not SIX. Six is outdated info, and remember that the people who man the phone at the CDC are reading from a script they're given, as to how to answer questions.
With the newer sensitive tests, no one needs to test past 3 months...even those with severely compromised immune systems (as listed above). Three months is MORE than enough time for anyone to produce detectable antibodies.
Not sure what you mean by a "confirmatory" test. The only time that's necessary is if you test positive.
Lastly, to comment on this statement of yours...
"Not trying to argue, just trying to verify the source of assurance that so many here use to advise with such confidence. I understand odds and percentages, but really like to be sure in life and death matters, which despite what we believe about conclusive testing windows, hiv most certainly is. U mess up 1% you can really screw someone up."
We are not responsible for a person's health, or their decisions. The advice given here is for informational purposes, and it should never be used as a substitution for IN PERSON health care. If a person is using ANY kind of info they found on the internet as their source of health care, that's on them.
Again, 6 months is very much outdated. You don't need to test beyond three months, but you do as you please. Most likely, you didn't have a risk to begin with....most people don't.
The rest of the tests (antibody, etc) are conclusive at THREE months, not SIX. Six is outdated info, and remember that the people who man the phone at the CDC are reading from a script they're given, as to how to answer questions.
With the newer sensitive tests, no one needs to test past 3 months...even those with severely compromised immune systems (as listed above). Three months is MORE than enough time for anyone to produce detectable antibodies.
Not sure what you mean by a "confirmatory" test. The only time that's necessary is if you test positive.
Lastly, to comment on this statement of yours...
"Not trying to argue, just trying to verify the source of assurance that so many here use to advise with such confidence. I understand odds and percentages, but really like to be sure in life and death matters, which despite what we believe about conclusive testing windows, hiv most certainly is. U mess up 1% you can really screw someone up."
We are not responsible for a person's health, or their decisions. The advice given here is for informational purposes, and it should never be used as a substitution for IN PERSON health care. If a person is using ANY kind of info they found on the internet as their source of health care, that's on them.
Again, 6 months is very much outdated. You don't need to test beyond three months, but you do as you please. Most likely, you didn't have a risk to begin with....most people don't.
Have an Answer?
You are reading content posted in the HIV Prevention Community
Condoms are the most effective way to prevent HIV and STDs.
PrEP is used by people with high risk to prevent HIV infection.
Can I get HIV from surfaces, like toilet seats?
Can you get HIV from casual contact, like hugging?
Frequency of HIV testing depends on your risk.
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) may help prevent HIV infection.
