Rapid HIV Test
HIV status of an individual can be tested by two methods: conventional and rapid. It may take few hours to many days to get results of a conventional test, whereas the results from a rapid test are available within 15 to 20 minutes. Therefore, rapid HIV testing is considered as a better option for screening individuals.
Early diagnosis is a key to the effective treatment for AIDS as it helps in identifying patients who are HIV positive at an early stage and helps in slowing down the progression of infection to AIDS and thus minimizing complications and death. A rapid HIV test helps in quickly confirming HIV status of a patient.
Why the test is performed?
Testing is essential to know the HIV status of an individual as many individuals are unaware of their HIV status. Early diagnosis helps in early treatment, which may slow down the progression to AIDS. Early diagnosis ensures that HIV positive individuals take precautions to help prevent the spread of the virus to others. Knowing the HIV status of pregnant women is also important to manage HIV infection and prevent it from transmission to the growing babies.
How is the sample collected?
A blood sample can be collected from a vein in the arm.
How to prepare for the test?
No special preparations are required for this test.
