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Test
results - what do they mean?
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Testing requires your
informed consent. This means you have give permission for the test, and your health care
provider or testing site has answered all your questions. Be sure you understand the test
and how it is done. |
Confidentiality |
Test results are
confidential unless you give written permission. Only people with a "need to
know" may see the results. These people may include:
- Health-care workers involved in your care
- Insurance companies and Medicare or Medicaid, if they are paying all or part of the cost
of your health care
- Public health officials - cases of AIDS must be reported to public health officials. HIV
infection must be reported in some states.
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Anonymous testing |
Anonymous testing
is available is some places.
- Your name is never used.
- You use a code to get your results
- You are the only person who knows your results
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A negative result |
A negative result
means no HIV antibodies were found in your body. But you could still be infected if you
have been exposed to HIV in the last six months. Your body may not have made enough HIV
antibodies to show up yet. Consider getting retested in a few months.
You are not immune. You can still become infected though risky behavior. |
An indeterminate result |
An indeterminate
result means the results were unclear. You may have to be tested again. |
A positive result |
A positive result means
your body is making HIV antibodies. You have been infected with HIV. This does NOT mean
you have AIDS or will get sick soon, though it is possible.
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What to do if you are positive |
If you test positive,
take special steps to protect your health.
- Find a supportive, experienced health care provider (start to manage your HIV
infection - even if you don't feel sick.)
- GET COUNSELING. Your mental health has a big inpact on your physical health.
Counseling can help you and your loved ones learn to live with HIV
- Find out about treatments. Early treatment may keep you healthier longer. Ask your
health-care provider or call HIV/AIDS Treatment Information Service at 1-800-448-0440
- Get a tuberculosis (TB) test. People with HIV are more likely to get TB. If detected
early, TB can be treated successfully.
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Take good care of
yourself. your health is more important than ever. Be sure to: EAT RIGHT
GET PLENTY OF REST
PRACTICE PROPER HYGIENE
AVOID ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS
EXERCISE (consult your health-care provider)
REDUCE STRESS
STOP SMOKING |