|
Get Tested
If you think you have been exposed to HIV infection and would like to know your status, stop by Life Foundation’s office for a free and anonymous HIV test.
Life Foundation now offers Rapid HIV Testing, and results are available in approximately 20 minutes.
Life Foundation HIV prevention specialists are also available to meet at a location where you feel comfortable, such as in your home, a beach or park.
Life Foundation
677 Ala Moana Blvd., Suite 226, Honolulu
Telephone: 521-2437
Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Click here for directions to our office.
If you are unsure if you should be tested, click on the "Should I Get Tested" link or call 521-AIDS and ask to speak to a HIV prevention specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an HIV Test?
HIV is diagnosed by testing serum (blood or oral fluid) for antibodies to HIV. The body’s immune system produces these antibodies when infected with HIV. The results of the test will determine if an individual is HIV positive or negative.
What do my results mean?
There are three types of results you could possibly receive from a HIV test:
- A Positive Result: This means you have been infected with HIV and are HIV positive.
- A Negative Result: A negative result means that the test did not detect any HIV antibodies. However, this does not mean you are immune to HIV. It can take up to three months from the time of possible exposure for your body to develop the antibodies to HIV.
- An Indeterminate Result: This means that the HIV test cannot determine definately if you have HIV antibodies or not. If your test result is indeterminate, it is recommended that you get re-tested in a few weeks.
If I think I have been exposed to HIV, how soon can I get tested?
The tests commonly used to detect HIV infection look for antibodies produced by your body to fight HIV. Most people will develop detectable antibodies within 3 months after infection, the average being 20 days. In rare cases, it can take 6-12 months. During the time between exposure and the test, it is important to avoid any behavior that might result in exposure to blood, semen, or vaginal secretions.
What if I test positive for HIV?
If you test positive for HIV, immediate medical treatment and a healthy lifestyle can help you stay well. There are now many drugs that treat HIV infection and AIDS-related illnesses. Prompt medical care may help delay the onset of AIDS and prevent some life-threatening conditions. Life Foundation will assist you in finding proper medical and emotional support.
|