How to Test for HIV Yourself
Disease description:
I have been in contact with an HIV-positive person and would like to test myself for HIV. How can I test for HIV on my own?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Jiang Weimin
When testing for HIV, self-testing can be performed after 6 weeks using an HIV rapid test strip. A blood sample is applied to the sample well of the test device. After 15–20 minutes, interpret the results by observing the test line (T) and control line (C). The presence of a red line in both the test and control zones indicates a positive result; a single red line appearing only in the control zone (with no line in the test zone) indicates a negative result. A positive result suggests HIV infection, whereas a negative result rules out HIV infection.
