Testing for HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) determines if a person has acquired HIV. HIV is the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). AIDS is the most advanced stage of HIV infection.
HIV testing can detect if you have HIV, but it cannot tell how long you have had HIV or if you have AIDS.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 13 to 64 years of age get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. Generally, people at higher risk for HIV should get tested each year. Sexually active gay and bisexual men may benefit from getting tested more often, such as every 3 to 6 months. If you are over 64 years of age and at risk, your health care provider may recommend HIV testing.
Factors that increase the risk of HIV include:
- Having vaginal or anal sex with someone who is HIV positive or whose HIV status you do not know.
- Injecting drugs and sharing needles, syringes, or other drug equipment with others.
- Exchanging sex for money or drugs.
- Having a sexually transmitted disease (STD), such as syphilis.
- Having sex with anyone who has any of the HIV risk factors listed above.
Talk to your health care provider about your risk for HIV and how often you should get tested for HIV.
