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Do I need an HIV re-test
I tested 12+ weeks (86 days) after possible exposure and the result was NON-REACTIVE. But the med tech/lab operator insisted that I should do a repeat test at 6 months.
Additional Info:
Exposure:
I am from the Philippines, and I had a one-time unprotected INSERTIVE VAGINAL sex with a long-term friend (female), with an unknown HIV status and probably had sex with other guys unprotected from the previous years. It was a 5-10 minutes sexual duration and I ejaculated outside.
Health Issues:
I did not experience any HIV symptoms the first few weeks, got hiv tested at 12 weeks, -ve. But after 4-month past exposure, I had dry cough that lasted for 3-4 days and had some moderately aching lymph nodes under my jaw.
Just for the record, (I dont know if this would help) I am also a long-term Seretide Inhaler user for asthma and has recurrent colds for the past years. I also smoked cigarette for 8 years but managed to stop for 6 months now. I am also a NON-IV drug user.
QUESTIONS:
1. Do I need a repeat test at 5 months or 6 months? (I don't know the generation used but probably a Laboratory 2nd generation standard EIA, considering the poor technological advancement in our city.)
2. Is a "ONE-TIME" antibody test at 12 weeks enough? (considering possible human error.)
3. Is it possible to experience hiv symptoms at 4 months past exposure? (Theoretically, let's just say that I have a compromised immune system that could cause late sero-conversion.)
I would be very grateful for your replies.
Additional Info:
Exposure:
I am from the Philippines, and I had a one-time unprotected INSERTIVE VAGINAL sex with a long-term friend (female), with an unknown HIV status and probably had sex with other guys unprotected from the previous years. It was a 5-10 minutes sexual duration and I ejaculated outside.
Health Issues:
I did not experience any HIV symptoms the first few weeks, got hiv tested at 12 weeks, -ve. But after 4-month past exposure, I had dry cough that lasted for 3-4 days and had some moderately aching lymph nodes under my jaw.
Just for the record, (I dont know if this would help) I am also a long-term Seretide Inhaler user for asthma and has recurrent colds for the past years. I also smoked cigarette for 8 years but managed to stop for 6 months now. I am also a NON-IV drug user.
QUESTIONS:
1. Do I need a repeat test at 5 months or 6 months? (I don't know the generation used but probably a Laboratory 2nd generation standard EIA, considering the poor technological advancement in our city.)
2. Is a "ONE-TIME" antibody test at 12 weeks enough? (considering possible human error.)
3. Is it possible to experience hiv symptoms at 4 months past exposure? (Theoretically, let's just say that I have a compromised immune system that could cause late sero-conversion.)
I would be very grateful for your replies.
3 month testing is considered conclusive for HIV. You should move on from this experience.
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Herpes sores blister, then burst, scab and heal.
Herpes spreads by oral, vaginal and anal sex.
STIs are the most common cause of genital sores.
Condoms are the most effective way to prevent HIV and STDs.
PrEP is used by people with high risk to prevent HIV infection.
