Our clinic has just started using a new instant HIV test that provides the result within 60 seconds. This particular test was recommended to us by a sexual health specialist centre and is used widely throughout the NHS. According to the supporting clinical study, this test is accurate to 99.96% and we regularly test its reliability using laboratory-prepared positive and negative samples.
This test involves a pin prick in the finger. The blood is then transfered to a testing membrane which tests for HIV antibodies. A blue dye is then used to activate the agent within the membrane which indicates a negative result with one blue dot and a positive result with two. HIV testing never gives a false negative result but can give a false positive result which is why all positive results are sent for confirmation and the tests are also repeated to improve reliability.
We are also providing a test for early HIV detection, or P24 test. The difference between this test and the antibody test is that it looks for the virus protein which can be detected much sooner than antibodies.
HIV is no longer a death sentence and many people with HIV live long and healthy lives. Early detection is key to a good prognosis and testing has never been easier.
I had a test not long ago which came up with one dot in a clinic which was a rapid test which i was told is negative what are the chances of this being wrong also i had all blood test at the docs one of which i believe was for hiv called back and said all blood is normal would hiv show up in a blood test
Dear Mr Foley, thank you for your enquiry. The instant HIV tests are highly accurate. To discuss your specific concerns feel free to book an appointment with one of our GPs or use our walk-in service.
hi. I am also very concerned. I am a pregnant 23 year old Early october I tested for Hiv using pin prickle test and the results came out negative. I went to another hospital around Durban and a sample of blood was taken for testing on Tuesday the 21st of November 2017. yesterday when i went back to the same hospital for ultrasound, a report came out and it stated that 1. blood tes: Hiv, result positive followed by 2. Blood tes: VDRL result negative. I went to another hospital to test for Hiav again via pin prickle test ( finger testeinh) and the results came out positive. I am really confused because at least the ultrasound operator was suppose to reffer me to a counselor if I had really tested positive and she was suppose to bring that to my attention. I am really confused. I dont know whether this was a misprint or what. Someone please explain this to me. Thankyou
Dear Mbele, your situation sounds really concerning. To understand what’s happening book a consultation and testing with us or visit your local GUM clinic.
What’s the window period for this new test. One website said it can detect antibodies in 13.5 days
Instant HIV tests look for blood antibodies that may take up to 3 months to develop. To discuss the most appropriate testing for your situation we strongly recommend to come for a consultation with one of our experienced sexual health professionals. For all sexual health related tests the consultation fee is included in the test price.