THE HIV TESTS

WHAT ARE THEY TESTING FOR?

You can test to identify antibodies present in the blood or to identify the virus.

WHAT ARE ANTIBODIES?

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) contains many different proteins (antigens) to which the immune system produces antibodies. These antibodies are usually an important component of immunity and help to destroy viruses and bacteria. The antibodies produced in response to HIV however, do not destroy the virus. Antibodies are present in the blood and can be used as an indication of HIV infection.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT ANTIBODY TESTS?

The tests that identify antibodies present in the blood include Western Blots, ELISA’s and Rapid Tests.

The Elisa requires 1/10ml of blood to do the test (a syringe) and will be sent away for the results as it requires specialized equipment and technical expertise to perform. Results are generally available in 1-2 weeks.

With technological advances of the last few years having led to reliable Rapid HIV Tests being developed, the use of these tests is increasing. This is a simple finger prick test done on-site, by a trained nurse or doctor and results available in 10-20 minutes.

THE RAPID TEST IS SO QUICK? IS IT RELIABLE?

Sensitivities and specificities of rapid tests that are available on government tender have been tested by the National Institute of Virology (NIV) are comparable with the Elisha test

ARE THE TESTS 100% ACCURATE?

It is important to know that no test is 100% accurate. For this reason, a positive rapid test is always verified by a second rapid test that identifies different antibodies to the first test.

The first Rapid Test performed is called the Abbott which is a sensitive test. 2:100 cases may result in a false positive because other antibodies are reacting to the test. Should the first test be positive, another Rapid Test walled the Gaifar will be taken. Should this be positive and Elisa test will be done where the blood will be sent away to the laboratory. This positive result will confirm the positive status of the client.

WHAT IS THE WINDOW PERIOD AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?

This applies when doing antibodies tests, not the virus tests. The window period is the time it may take for antibodies to develop in the blood after infection. This can take from about 2 weeks to 3 months. This means that if a person had sexual intercourse or was at risk through blood transfusion or needles they should wait 3 months before having another test in order to be sure they are negative.

I CAN’T WAIT 3 MONTHS! – ARE THERE ANY OTHER OPITIONS?

Yes, there is a virus test. Tests that identify the virus, such as PCR, require highly specialized equipment and expertise and are not routinely done as it is expensive. The advantage of this test is that it can be used 2 weeks after suspected infection.

I AM 14 YEARS. DO I NEED MY PARENT’S CONSENT?

No, you don’t. A client at 14 years may consent to be tested without the consent of a parent or guardian. If he/she is younger than 14 years, the consent of a parent or guardian is required. The test results is not disclosed to anyone without the consent of the client, including to parents of children 14 years or older.

WHAT IS INFORMED CONSENT?

Testing for HIV infection requires informed consent and must include pre- and post- test counseling.

Informed consent means that the client is given enough information to make an informed decision about the test and provided with the opportunity to either accept or refuse the test. This implies that he/she understands what the test is, the benefits and risks of the test and the possible social implications of a positive test. The individual should then be free to accept or refuse the test, devoid of coercion. Consent should be taken in writing. Suitably trained medical personnel or lay-counsellors should provide the necessary counselling.

It is vital that confidentiality is maintained throughout the testing process. This implies that counselling and testing needs to be conducted in privacy.

DOES THE COUNSELLOR HAVE A RIGHT TO DISCLOSE MY STATUS?

The test results is not disclosed to anyone without the consent of the client, including to parents of children 14 years or older, to spouses and to employers.